Cyclone Garance Causes Casualties and Destruction in Reunion Island

Cyclone Garance has claimed three lives in Reunion Island and caused extreme damage, including power outages for 180,000 homes and lack of water for 170,000 residents. The cyclone hit with wind gusts of 234km/h, prompting emergency alerts and warnings. Although it has exited the island, recovery efforts are being organized, and additional support is being readied from mainland France and Mayotte.

Cyclone Garance has tragically resulted in three fatalities in Reunion Island as it made landfall with destructive winds reaching up to 234 kilometers per hour (145 mph). The cyclone struck early Friday morning, leading to over 180,000 households losing power and 170,000 lacking running water. In response to the intense conditions, local officials imposed a maximum alert level, advising the entire population, including emergency services, to remain indoors.

The storm’s harsh weather was deemed more severe than Cyclone Belal, which had claimed four lives in January 2024. Prefect Patrice Latron characterized the situation as “brutal and violent,” indicating a serious threat from the cyclone. Cyclone Garance first hit the northern part of the island at 10:00 local time (06:00 GMT) and moved southward, exiting the island by late afternoon.

Following the cyclone’s passage, local authorities downgraded the alert level to facilitate emergency personnel’s departure from shelters. The maximum wind speed recorded during Garance had not been seen since Cyclone Hollanda in February 1994. Vincent Clain, a resident, expressed his fear, stating, “This is the first time I have seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I have been afraid.”

Approximately 100 troops and firefighters from the French territory of Mayotte, located nearly 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) away, are prepared to assist as soon as circumstances improve. Additionally, another 100 personnel from mainland France are on standby. Meanwhile, a 55-year-old man has been reported missing in nearby Mauritius after going swimming in treacherous seas during the cyclone’s approach.

Cyclone Garance has caused significant devastation in Reunion Island, leading to three fatalities and widespread power and water outages. The situation was characterized by severe weather conditions, marking a notable meteorological event for the region. Authorities are mobilizing resources and personnel to provide assistance as the island recovers from this catastrophic event.

Original Source: www.bbc.com