Cyclone Garance poses a severe threat to Mauritius and La Reunion, leading to airport closures and school shutdowns on both islands. Classified as a Class 3 cyclone, it features strong winds and potential flooding. Authorities are implementing safety measures as the cyclone is expected to intensify and impact the islands significantly.
Mauritius and La Reunion, two renowned tourist destinations in the Indian Ocean, prepared for the impending danger posed by Cyclone Garance, classified as a “direct threat” to both islands. In anticipation of the cyclone, Mauritius had already closed its main airport on Wednesday, while La Reunion planned to follow suit on Thursday. The Mauritius Meteorological Service issued a Class 3 cyclone alert, the second-highest level, forecasting gusts of wind reaching 70 kph and potential flooding due to the storm’s approach.
As Cyclone Garance intensified into an “intense tropical storm,” reports indicated it was located 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius. The cyclone’s trajectory initially pointed east but has since veered south, positioning it to pass between Mauritius and La Reunion. Local authorities in La Reunion are expected to declare a red alert, necessitating the closure of its airport and prompting preparations for severe weather effects.
The peak strength of Cyclone Garance is predicted to manifest late Thursday or into the night, with the French weather service, Meteo-France, indicating a likely direct impact on La Reunion. Celine Jauffray from Meteo-France noted an expectation of gusts surpassing 150 kph in elevated regions of the island, alongside heavy rainfall and turbulent seas. With schools already closed since Wednesday afternoon, safety measures remain paramount as the population is urged to stay indoors during the storm.
Air Mauritius announced the suspension of all flights “until further notice,” as the two islands poised themselves for possible disruptions and catastrophic weather conditions associated with the cyclone.
In summary, the islands of Mauritius and La Reunion are preparing for the formidable Cyclone Garance, which poses significant risks to both areas. With airport closures and schools shut down, authorities are taking necessary precautions, including the issuance of a red alert on La Reunion. Residents are advised to remain indoors as the storm approaches, with expectations of powerful winds and severe flooding. The situation underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
