Tropical Cyclone Garance Causes Fatalities and Damage on Reunion Island

Tropical Cyclone Garance has hit Reunion Island, causing at least three fatalities and extensive damage due to high winds and heavy rain. Authorities reported significant power outages and evacuations as they manage the crisis amidst a continuing red warning for residents.

On Friday, Tropical Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, resulting in the deaths of at least three individuals, according to reports from French police. The cyclone unleashed severe winds, surpassing 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), alongside heavy rainfall that led to significant flooding, power outages, and structural damage to buildings. Authorities have confirmed the fatalities but have not disclosed further details surrounding these incidents.

In response to the storm, officials advised residents to remain indoors while providing refuge for 847 individuals in emergency shelters. Furthermore, 54 residents were evacuated due to concerns about possible flooding and landslides. Reports indicate that approximately 182,000 people experienced power outages, while 171,000 individuals lost access to drinking water as a result of the cyclone’s impact.

The storm’s high winds resulted in extensive damage to structures, including roofs, doors, and windows. Tarpaulins were dispatched to the most severely affected areas in the eastern part of the island to provide temporary shelter. Although the highest-level purple cyclone warning was lifted on Friday morning, a red warning remains in effect, urging residents to stay indoors as adverse weather conditions persist throughout the day.

Meteo France, the national meteorological agency, recorded wind speeds reaching 214 kilometers per hour (133 mph) at Reunion’s primary airport. Reunion is situated approximately 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) southeast of Mayotte, a French territory that recently suffered widespread destruction from Cyclone Chido in December, leading to confirmed fatalities and numerous missing individuals.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Garance has resulted in at least three deaths on Reunion Island, alongside widespread structural damage and significant disruptions in power and water supply. Authorities continue to manage the aftermath as recovery operations are underway, while residents remain under safety advisories as the storm continues to affect the area.

Original Source: www.voanews.com