Mauritius and La Reunion Prepare for Severe Cyclone Garance
Mauritius and La Reunion are bracing for the impending arrival of Cyclone Garance, an intense tropical storm. The cyclone has been classified as class 3, triggering airport closures and safety alerts. Winds are expected to reach up to 150 kph, with heavy rains and flooding predicted. Authorities have declared a red alert, advising residents to stay indoors.
Mauritius and La Reunion, renowned tourist destinations in the Indian Ocean, are currently preparing for Cyclone Garance, classified as a dangerous tropical storm threatening both islands. The Mauritius government declared a class 3 cyclone, the second-highest alert level, advising the public of the potential dangers ahead as the cyclone approaches, bringing winds of up to 70 kilometers per hour.
The Mauritius Meteorological Service confirmed the cyclone was positioned approximately 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and is classified as an intense tropical storm. They warned of expected flooding and confirmed that the cyclone presents a direct threat to the islands, as Cyclone Garance has recharted its path towards La Reunion and Mauritius.
In response to the impending cyclone, Mauritius shut down its main international airport the day prior, with La Reunion poised to follow suit. A red alert status has been declared on La Reunion, mandating that the population remain indoors, restricting movement only to emergency personnel. Existing disruptions include school closures that began on Wednesday afternoon.
Furthermore, forecasts from Meteo-France indicate that La Reunion will face gusts exceeding 150 kilometers per hour in higher elevations, accompanied by heavy rainfall and turbulent seas. Celine Jauffray from Meteo-France noted that, while the direct impact on Reunion Island was anticipated, both the intensity and trajectory of Cyclone Garance could still fluctuate, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Air Mauritius has suspended all flights indefinitely, and the local authorities are urging residents to take all necessary precautions as the cyclone makes its approach, with expectations of peak intensity occurring later in the evening or overnight.
In conclusion, both Mauritius and La Reunion are taking significant precautions as Cyclone Garance approaches. With the meteorological authorities declaring a direct threat and red alert status, safety measures, including the closure of airports and schools, are being implemented. Residents are advised to remain indoors as dangerous weather conditions are anticipated, marking a critical situation for these island nations.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
