Cyclone Garance is approaching Mauritius and La Reunion, prompting airport closures and the issuance of a red alert in La Reunion. The storm has been classified as a category 3 cyclone with expected gusts of up to 70 kph, and heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Authorities are preparing for a potential direct impact and have closed schools in La Reunion, suspending all flights until further notice.
The islands of Mauritius and La Reunion are preparing for the impending arrival of Cyclone Garance, classified as a serious threat. The Mauritius government took precautionary measures and closed its main airport the day prior, while La Reunion announced plans to follow suit on Thursday. Cyclone Garance, rated as a category 3 cyclone, is anticipated to produce gusting winds of approximately 70 kilometers per hour, posing significant risks to both islands.
According to the Mauritius Meteorological Service, Cyclone Garance is located 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and has escalated into an intense tropical storm. The service indicated that the cyclone poses a direct threat to the islands as it approaches dangerously, with flooding expected due to heavy rainfall. The cyclone’s path has shifted southward, placing it between Mauritius and La Reunion, prompting local authorities to prepare for potential impacts.
As of Thursday, the local prefect of La Reunion stated that a red alert would be issued, and its airport would be closed for safety reasons. Meteorological predictions suggest that the cyclone could reach peak intensity late in the day, with gusts potentially exceeding 150 kilometers per hour across higher elevations of La Reunion. The issued red alert will enforce restrictions requiring residents to remain indoors, while only emergency services will be operational throughout the island.
In response to the cyclone’s threats, schools on La Reunion have been closed since Wednesday afternoon. Air Mauritius has suspended all flights indefinitely until the situation stabilizes and it is deemed safe for operations to resume. Authorities continue to monitor the cyclone’s development closely, remaining vigilant for any alterations in its trajectory or intensity.
In summary, preparations are underway in Mauritius and La Reunion as Cyclone Garance approaches, prompting significant safety measures, including airport closures and a red alert declaration. With cyclone winds projected to intensify and heavy rain anticipated, residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to directives from local authorities. The situation remains dynamic, and ongoing assessments will determine further actions as the cyclone approaches the islands.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
