Tropical Cyclone Garance impacted Reunion, bringing winds over 200 km/h and heavy rain, leading to flooding and damage to structures. Authorities set up emergency shelters; however, power outages and water supply issues affected many homes. A red warning remains in effect as residents are urged to stay indoors.
Tropical Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, causing severe weather conditions with sustained winds surpassing 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph) and heavy rainfall. The cyclone prompted authorities to advise residents to remain indoors, as it resulted in significant flooding, power outages, and structural damage throughout the island.
As a precautionary measure, 683 individuals sought refuge in emergency shelters, and 54 residents were evacuated due to potential flooding and landslides. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported so far. Approximately 30% of homes experienced power outages, and around 10% of the island’s population, totaling 885,000 inhabitants, faced shortages of drinking water.
The prefecture reported extensive damage, with strong winds causing roofs, doors, and windows to be torn off buildings. Emergency services have been dispatched with tarpaulins for the hardest-hit regions in the eastern part of the island. Despite the lifting of the purple cyclone warning, the island remained under a red warning as the adverse conditions persisted.
Winds were recorded at 214 kilometers per hour at Reunion’s principal airport, indicating the cyclone’s intensity. Reunion is situated approximately 1,500 kilometers southeast of Mayotte, which suffered catastrophic damage from Cyclone Chido in December, resulting in 40 confirmed fatalities and 41 individuals reported missing.
In summary, Cyclone Garance has inflicted severe weather conditions on Reunion, leading to damage, evacuations, and ongoing challenges for residents. Continued guidance for safety from local authorities is crucial as the effects of the cyclone are still being assessed.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Garance has caused considerable disruption on the island of Reunion, prompting emergency measures and significant structural damage. While authorities are beginning recovery efforts, residents are advised to remain cautious as adverse weather conditions continue. The impact of this cyclone could echo the severe consequences seen previously in the region.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
