Mauritius and Reunion are under high alert for Tropical Storm Garance, a category 3 cyclone with winds up to 200 km/h. Airports are closing, and authorities urge residents to stay indoors. The cyclone is expected to pass close to both islands, posing a threat of flooding and severe weather conditions.
Mauritius and Reunion Island have declared heightened states of alert due to the impending arrival of Tropical Storm Garance, classified as a category 3 cyclone. With winds anticipated to reach up to 200 kilometers per hour, both islands are considered to be under direct threat. Airports in Mauritius and Reunion have begun to close as officials prepare for the storm’s impact, which could lead to severe flooding.
As of Wednesday, Mauritius closed its main airport, while Reunion Island is anticipated to follow suit. Authorities on Reunion have escalated the alert level to the highest status, known as a ‘purple alert,’ in light of the cyclone’s approach. The prefecture has issued official warnings urging residents to remain indoors as strong winds are expected.
Current meteorological assessments indicate that Garance was located 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius, labeled as an ‘intense tropical storm.’ Although the cyclone was initially moving east, its trajectory has shifted south, with expectations to pass between the two islands. Predictions suggest that the storm could come within 50 kilometers of Reunion in the coming hours, thus elevating concerns among the population.
In summary, the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and Reunion are on high alert due to the imminent arrival of Cyclone Garance, with wind speeds projected to exceed 200 kilometers per hour. Airports are closing, and strong warnings have been issued for residents to take precautions. The potential for flooding and other severe weather conditions is increasing, marking a significant threat to these regions.
Original Source: unn.ua