Tropical Storm Garance Triggers Airport Closure in Mauritius and…

Tropical Storm Garance has led to the closure of Mauritius’ main airport and prompted a Foreign Office alert. Air Mauritius is offering free date changes for affected travelers. La Réunion is preparing for a lockdown as the storm approaches, with residents advised to stay indoors to ensure safety.

Mauritius has closed its main international airport in response to severe weather conditions caused by Tropical Storm Garance. The closure occurred on Wednesday afternoon, 26 February, due to sustained high winds and heavy rainfall, and it will remain in effect until further notice. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates regarding flight statuses.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issued an alert for UK nationals in Mauritius, urging them to remain in safe locations and adhere to local authorities’ instructions. In a statement, the national airline, Air Mauritius, acknowledged the inconvenience of flight delays and expressed commitment to rescheduling flights as soon as weather conditions improve.

Additionally, residents of La Réunion, a French island nearby, are preparing for a complete lockdown as the cyclone is expected to reach their shores on Thursday, 27 February. Local authorities have announced that residents should remain indoors and brace for potential power and water outages, utilizing their phones only when necessary to stay informed about the weather situation.

The prefect of La Réunion indicated that crisis management teams would conduct assessments after the cyclone passes, indicating that the lockdown and red alert will only conclude once safety conditions are deemed secure. Authorities emphasize the importance of caution during this time as they prioritize public safety.

In summary, the closure of Mauritius’ international airport and the subsequent travel advisories underscore the impact of Tropical Storm Garance on the region. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed and seek assistance from their airlines. Furthermore, La Réunion’s preparations for lockdown reflect the broader implications of the storm, prioritizing community safety amidst severe weather conditions.

Original Source: www.ttgmedia.com