Tropical Cyclone Garance hit Reunion Island, causing winds over 200 km/h and heavy rainfall. Officials urged residents to stay indoors, resulting in 683 individuals seeking emergency shelter. Power outages and water shortages have affected thousands, but no fatalities have been reported. A red warning remains in effect as authorities respond to the aftermath of the cyclone.
On Friday, Tropical Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, prompting officials to advise residents to remain indoors. The cyclone generated winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), resulting in heavy rainfall that caused flooding, power outages, and significant structural damage. In response, 683 individuals sought refuge in emergency shelters, with an additional 54 people evacuated due to the threat of flooding and landslides. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported to date.
Approximately 30 percent of the island’s residences experienced power disruptions, and nearly 10 percent of the 885,000 residents faced shortages in drinking water. Local authorities observed that powerful winds dislodged roofs, doors, and windows from numerous buildings, necessitating the distribution of tarpaulins to the most affected regions in eastern Reunion. Although the purple cyclone warning, which represents the highest alert level, was lifted, officials maintained a red warning due to forecasts of continued heavy rainfall and fierce winds throughout the day.
The national meteorological agency, Meteo France, recorded wind gusts of up to 214 kilometers per hour at Reunion’s central airport. Located approximately 1,500 kilometers southeast of Mayotte, another French territory, Reunion has witnessed severe cyclone impacts in the past. In December, Cyclone Chido devastated Mayotte, resulting in 40 confirmed deaths, with authorities still searching for an additional 41 individuals presumed missing or believed to be buried under debris.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Garance has severely impacted the island of Reunion, prompting significant precautionary measures and widespread damage. Emergency shelters have been activated, and residents are urged to stay indoors as heavy winds and rains persist. The situation remains critical, and local authorities continue to work diligently to restore essential services and ensure the safety of all residents.
Original Source: apnews.com
