Tropical Cyclone Garance Causes Widespread Destruction in Réunion
Tropical Cyclone Garance struck Réunion on February 28, 2025, causing at least four deaths and leaving over 180,000 households without power, water, and internet. With wind speeds classified as Category 3, the cyclone wreaked havoc, prompting local officials to issue warnings. Response measures are underway as conditions slowly improve, while the Ministry of Defence remains prepared to assist the impacted region.
Tropical Cyclone Garance struck Réunion on February 28, 2025, causing severe devastation. The cyclone made landfall with sustained winds reaching 155 km/h (95 mph) and gusts over 200 km/h (125 mph), resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals. The island experienced widespread destruction, leaving over 180,000 homes without power, and many residents lacking access to clean water and internet services.
Meteorological data recorded gusts up to 214 km/h (133 mph) at Gillot Airport, the highest since Cyclone Jenny in 1962. Some localities experienced even stronger winds, with record gusts of 234 km/h (145 mph) noted at Sainte-Rose, reminiscent of conditions during Cyclone Hollanda in 1994. Prefect Patrice Latron remarked that the storm’s intensity surpassed that of Cyclone Belal, which had previously resulted in fatalities in January 2024.
The cyclone’s impact led to roofs being torn off, trees uprooted, and roads damaged, with estimates indicating 30% of the island lost power. Local officials reported that by March 1, four deaths had been confirmed, with assessments noting that three had been reported earlier. Following the cyclone, Garance diminished to a strong tropical storm as it exited the southwestern part of the island late on Friday afternoon.
Although the red alert was lifted, local authorities urged caution among residents regarding hazards such as fallen power lines and flooding. Conditions were improving in the north; however, challenges remained in the south. France’s Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, described Garance as exhibiting “rare intensity,” while Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced preparations for military assistance with troops ready to deploy from both Mayotte and mainland France.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Garance has had a devastating impact on Réunion, resulting in fatalities, extensive damage, and major disruptions to essential services. The response from local and national authorities highlights efforts to assist affected residents and mitigate further risks. As recovery continues, caution remains essential amid ongoing hazards from the cyclone.
Original Source: watchers.news
