Tropical Cyclone Garance struck Réunion on February 28, 2025, causing four fatalities and leaving over 180,000 residents without power. The storm unleashed Category 3 hurricane-level winds, leading to severe infrastructural damage. Although conditions have improved, local authorities remain cautious about lingering hazards as recovery efforts progress.
Tropical Cyclone Garance made landfall on Réunion on February 28, 2025, at 10:00 local time, causing devastating effects with substantial winds and heavy rainfall. This intense cyclone, equivalent to a Category 3 hurricane, recorded sustained winds of 155 km/h (95 mph) and gusts exceeding 200 km/h (125 mph), resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals and widespread power outages affecting over 180,000 residents.
The cyclone reached peak gusts of 234 km/h (145 mph), with notable speeds reported at Gillot Airport. These conditions were described as “brutal and violent” by Prefect Patrice Latron, highlighting their intensity compared to previous cyclones. Garance’s destructive path left significant infrastructural damage, including uprooted trees, damaged streets, and blown-off roofs.
As of March 1, the storm had caused at least four fatalities while leaving over 182,000 households without electricity and 171,000 without access to water. Although Garance weakened into a strong tropical storm by late Friday, lingering hazards such as flooding and fallen power lines continued to pose risks, particularly in the southern regions of the island.
French authorities, including Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, acknowledged the rare intensity of Garance and indicated preparedness for assistance. Approximately 100 soldiers and firefighters from Mayotte and another 100 from mainland France are on standby to aid the island’s recovery efforts when conditions allow for safe deployment.
Tropical Cyclone Garance resulted in significant destruction and loss of life on Réunion, with high wind speeds leading to extensive power outages and infrastructure damage. Local and national authorities continue to address the aftermath while remaining vigilant of potential hazards. The resilience of the community and assistance from military personnel will be critical in the recovery process.
Original Source: watchers.news
