Mauritius and La Reunion Prepare for Cyclone Garance Threat

Mauritius and La Reunion are bracing for Cyclone Garance, classified as a class 3 cyclone with wind gusts of up to 70 kph. Mauritius has closed its main airport, and La Reunion is set to follow suit. The cyclone poses a direct threat with warnings of flooding and high winds, prompting the issuance of a red alert for La Reunion.

Mauritius and La Reunion are preparing for the impending impact of Cyclone Garance, which has been identified as a significant threat to both islands. As part of these preparations, Mauritius closed its main airport a day prior, while La Reunion is scheduled to do the same. Classified as a class 3 cyclone, Garance could produce wind gusts reaching 70 kilometers per hour.

The Mauritius Meteorological Service reported that Cyclone Garance was located approximately 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius, warning that it has intensified into an “intense tropical storm.” The service cautioned that the cyclone is approaching with great danger, indicating that flooding is anticipated. Additionally, its trajectory has shifted south, positioning it to pass between Mauritius and La Reunion.

On Thursday, La Reunion’s local authorities announced they would issue a red alert and suspend airport operations in response to the cyclone. According to Meteo-France, the peak intensity of the storm is anticipated later in the day or into the evening. Celine Jauffray from Meteo-France commented that the projected scenario involves a direct impact on La Reunion, while acknowledging that the cyclone’s intensity and course may vary.

The highest elevations on La Reunion may experience gusts exceeding 150 kilometers per hour. Accompanying these winds, residents may face heavy rainfall and tumultuous seas. The issued red alert mandates that the island’s residents remain indoors, with only emergency services permitted to navigate the area. Already, schools have been closed since Wednesday afternoon and Air Mauritius has halted all flights until further notice.

Cyclone Garance poses a serious threat to the islands of Mauritius and La Reunion, prompting significant safety measures including airport closures and travel restrictions. With anticipated gusts of high winds and heavy rain, residents are urged to remain indoors as local authorities prepare for impact. The situation remains dynamic, with updates expected as the cyclone approaches.

Original Source: www.voanews.com