Flight Cancellations and Travel Disruptions in Mauritius Due to New Storm Garance

Mauritius is facing widespread travel disruptions due to the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport as a result of New Storm Garance. Multiple airlines, including major international carriers, have canceled flights in response to a Class III storm warning, creating significant inconveniences for travelers. Passengers are advised to stay informed about their travel arrangements amid worsening weather conditions and ongoing safety measures in the area.

Mauritius is currently experiencing significant travel disruptions due to the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, triggered by New Storm Garance. Major airlines, including Air France, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, South African Airways, Air India, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, and Saudia Airlines, have canceled all flights to and from the island following a Class III storm warning issued by the Mauritius Meteorological Service. This warning indicates dangerous conditions with high winds and heavy rainfall, halting air travel until further notice.

The airport closure took effect at 19:10 local time (15:10 GMT) on February 26, 2025. The Mauritius Meteorological Service raised the storm warning to Class III, the highest level for this season. The storm is expected to produce extreme winds of up to 165 kilometers per hour (102 mph) and create hazardous conditions across the island, necessitating the immediate cessation of air travel.

As a consequence of the airport closure, flights from various carriers including Kenya Airways, Condor, Air Mauritius, IndiGo, and several others have been suspended indefinitely. Travelers are urged to reach out to their respective airlines for further updates regarding rebooking and alternate travel options. Many passengers find themselves stranded, leading to considerable disruption of travel plans.

The severe storm, situated 390 kilometers (240 miles) northwest of Mauritius, is forecasted to reach its peak strength soon. Authorities have advised residents and visitors to remain indoors due to the anticipated rough seas and flooding risks. In light of this situation, non-essential businesses, banks, and the stock exchange have also been shut down, as public transport services may face delays and cancellations.

Additionally, Mauritius has recently been facing an unexpected drought, with January 2025 recording exceptionally low rainfall at just 30 percent of the long-term average. In anticipation of the storm’s arrival, the government had already instituted water usage restrictions. As weather conditions worsen, travelers with upcoming flights are encouraged to stay updated through their airlines and local weather reports for potential further disruptions in the following days.

In summary, Mauritius faces serious travel disruptions as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport has been closed due to the intense conditions of New Storm Garance. Multiple airlines have canceled flights, leaving passengers in uncertainty while authorities enforce safety measures. The situation is exacerbated by recent drought conditions and water restrictions. Travelers must stay informed about potential changes and continue to monitor weather updates as the storm progresses.

Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com