Mauritius and La Reunion Prepare for Threatening Cyclone Garance
Mauritius and La Reunion are bracing for the dangerous Cyclone Garance, which has been designated as a direct threat to the islands. The cyclone prompted the closure of major airports, with expected high winds and flooding. A red alert has been issued, urging residents to remain indoors as preparations for the storm increase.
On Thursday, the islands of Mauritius and La Reunion prepared for the arrival of Cyclone Garance, classified as a dangerous tropical storm. Mauritius took precautionary measures by closing its main airport the day prior, while La Reunion was also expected to do the same on Thursday. The cyclone, labeled as a class 3 storm, was anticipated to bring wind gusts reaching 70 kph and significant rain, posing a direct threat to both islands.
The Mauritius Meteorological Service indicated that the cyclone was situated 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and had intensified into an intense tropical storm. Authorities warned that flooding would ensue as Garance approached dangerously close to the islands. Originally moving east, the cyclone changed course to the south, threatening to impact both Mauritius and La Reunion directly.
Celine Jauffray from Meteo-France stated that the cyclone could exert a direct impact on La Reunion Island and noted that its trajectory and intensity might still vary. Winds exceeding 150 kph were predicted for the high elevations of La Reunion, alongside heavy rainfall and rough marine conditions. In anticipation of the storm, a red alert was issued, instructing residents to remain indoors, permitting only emergency services to operate.
Schools in the region began closing on Wednesday afternoon, and Air Mauritius halted all flights pending further updates on the situation. Local authorities have made it clear that the safety of the populace is the priority as the cyclone approaches.
In summary, Cyclone Garance poses a significant threat to the islands of Mauritius and La Reunion, with preparations underway including airport closures and a red alert being issued. The cyclone is forecasted to bring heavy winds and rainfall, raising concerns about possible flooding. Authorities have urged the public to remain indoors as the storm approaches, with all flights suspended until further notice.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
