Mauritius to Close Airport Amid Intensifying Tropical Storm Garance

Mauritius will close its only airport due to the intensifying tropical storm Garance, which has prompted the first Class III cyclone warning of the summer season. The storm could bring winds of up to 165 kilometers per hour, presenting a serious threat to the island. Concurrently, restrictions on water usage have been enacted due to below-average rainfall in January.

Mauritius is set to close its only international airport beginning Wednesday evening, as the nation’s meteorological services have raised the cyclone warning to Class III. This marks the first such warning in the ongoing summer season. With the closure, banks, the stock exchange, and offices for non-essential services will remain shut, coinciding with the public holiday on Wednesday. The extended closure will depend on the duration of the cyclone warning in effect.

Tropical storm Garance, currently situated off the northwestern coast of Mauritius, is predicted to escalate to tropical cyclone status. According to meteorological officials, wind speeds may reach approximately 165 kilometers (102 miles) per hour, making Garance a significant threat to the island. The government has been monitoring the storm closely.

Historically, the months of January and February experience substantial rainfall in Mauritius, but this year has been atypical. January recorded just 30% of the long-term average rainfall, resulting in the driest conditions experienced in the past 25 years. Consequently, the government has implemented restrictions on water usage for non-essential activities due to dwindling water levels in primary reservoirs.

In summary, Mauritius is preparing for severe weather conditions as tropical storm Garance intensifies, resulting in the closure of the sole airport and the continuation of non-essential services’ shutdown. The unusual dry weather preceding the storm has raised concerns over water resources, prompting governmental restrictions. This cyclone poses a serious threat requiring vigilant monitoring and sustained public safety measures.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com