Mauritius and La Réunion are on high alert due to Cyclone Garance, classified as a category 3 cyclone. With wind gusts forecasted to reach 70 km/h, Mauritius has closed its main airport while La Réunion prepares for a red alert. A direct impact is anticipated, prompting residents to remain indoors and emergency services to be on standby.
The Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and La Réunion are currently under high alert as Cyclone Garance threatens these popular tourist destinations. On Wednesday, Mauritius decided to close its main airport, with La Réunion expected to follow suit by Thursday. Authorities have classified Garance as a category 3 cyclone, the second-highest alert level, forecasting wind gusts of up to 70 kilometers (43 miles) per hour.
As of now, the cyclone was recorded at a distance of 310 kilometers (190 miles) northwest of Mauritius, intensifying into an intense tropical storm. The Mauritius Meteorological Service has indicated that Garance is dangerously approaching, posing a direct threat and bringing the possibility of flooding. Initially moving east, the cyclone has shifted to a southward trajectory, expected to pass between Mauritius and La Réunion.
The government representative for La Réunion confirmed the issuance of a red alert, which would trigger the closure of the island’s airport. The predicted path of the cyclone suggests it will come within 50 kilometers of La Réunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning, as stated by the prefecture. Meteo-France has cautioned that La Réunion could face a direct impact, with wind gusts potentially exceeding 150 kilometers per hour in higher elevations.
The severe weather alerts necessitate that residents remain indoors, with only emergency services authorized to operate during this critical period. Schools had already ceased activities by Wednesday afternoon in anticipation of the cyclone. In response to the impending storm, Air Mauritius has announced the suspension of all flights until further notice.
In summary, Mauritius and La Réunion are on high alert for Cyclone Garance, which poses a significant threat with expected flooding and high winds. Airports on both islands have been closed, and residents have been advised to stay indoors as emergency services prepare for potential impacts. The situation remains critical as the cyclone approaches, necessitating precautions and readiness among the local populations.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
