Mauritius and Reunion are under heightened alert as Cyclone Garance approaches, with winds reaching 200 km/h. Mauritius closed its airport, and Reunion declared a ‘purple alert.’ The cyclone is expected to pass near Reunion, prompting authorities to advise residents to remain indoors. History shows severe impacts can occur, raising concerns for safety and damage.
Tourist islands in the Indian Ocean, specifically Mauritius and Reunion, have issued a heightened state of alert due to the imminent arrival of Cyclone Garance. Classified as a category 3 storm, Garance is producing wind gusts of up to 200 km/h and poses a significant threat to these popular tourist destinations. In response, Mauritius and Reunion have taken proactive measures to safeguard residents and visitors.
As of Wednesday, Mauritius closed its main airport, anticipating the cyclone’s impact, while Reunion’s airport is set to close shortly thereafter. Authorities on Reunion Island declared a ‘purple alert’ on Friday, acknowledging the cyclone’s potential for severe damage. The local prefect announced this decision, emphasizing vigilance against the anticipated winds exceeding 200 km/h.
Currently, Cyclone Garance is approximately 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius, classified as an intense tropical storm and a direct threat to the islands. It has altered its course from eastward to southward and is expected to pass within a mere 50 kilometers of Reunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning. Local meteorological authorities have urged the nearly 900,000 residents of Reunion to remain indoors due to the cyclone’s trajectory.
Historically, Reunion has experienced devastating repercussions from previous cyclones, such as Cyclone Belal, which struck in January 2024, resulting in four fatalities and damages amounting to approximately €100 million ($104 million). The region remains on high alert as it braces for the potential impact of Cyclone Garance, demonstrating the ongoing vulnerability of these islands to severe weather events.
In summary, the powerful Cyclone Garance poses a direct threat to the tourist islands of Mauritius and Reunion, prompting the declaration of a heightened state of alert and the closure of airports. With wind gusts potentially exceeding 200 km/h and a trajectory expected to bring it perilously close to the islands, residents are urged to take necessary precautions and remain indoors. The region is mindful of past cyclones and their devastating impact, underscoring the seriousness of the current situation.
Original Source: unn.ua
