The islands of Mauritius and La Reunion are on high alert due to Cyclone Garance, categorized as a class 3 cyclone. Mauritius has closed its main airport, and La Reunion will initiate a red alert as the cyclone approaches, bringing anticipated wind gusts and flooding. Residents are stocking up on essential supplies to prepare for potential emergency measures.
Mauritius and La Reunion, two Indian Ocean islands, are currently on high alert as they face the approach of Cyclone Garance, classified as a significant threat to these popular tourist destinations. As a precautionary measure, the main airport in Mauritius was closed on Wednesday, while the authorities in La Reunion are set to follow suit due to impending dangerous weather conditions.
Cyclone Garance has been categorized as a class 3 storm by Mauritius, indicating its severe nature with projected wind gusts reaching up to 70 kilometers per hour. The island’s meteorological service reported that the cyclone is located approximately 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and has intensified into a potentially hazardous tropical storm.
The cyclone poses a direct threat to both islands, with predictions of flooding due to its current trajectory. Garance is expected to pass between Mauritius and La Reunion, and the government of La Reunion has announced a forthcoming red alert as the cyclone is anticipated to approach within 50 kilometers of the island.
As preparations continue, locals in La Reunion are stocking up on essential supplies in anticipation of the storm’s impact and the subsequent lockdown. Long queues have formed in stores, with residents purchasing bottled water, batteries, and canned goods in preparation for the predicted emergency measures that will enforce a mandatory stay-at-home policy.
In addition to residents, fishermen and farmers are taking precautions against the impending storm. Fishermen have secured their vessels while farmers are protecting their crops to mitigate potential damage from strong winds. The last time a red alert was issued in La Reunion was during Cyclone Belal in January 2024, which resulted in tragic loss of life and substantial economic damage.
In conclusion, both Mauritius and La Reunion are bracing for Cyclone Garance, a significant tropical storm that poses severe risks to life and property. With preparations underway, the local populations are heeding warnings and securing supplies to cope with the imminent impacts. Historical context from previous cyclones underscores the potential for devastating consequences, necessitating vigilant readiness and adherence to emergency protocols.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
