Cyclone Garance Causes Severe Disruptions on Reunion Island

Cyclone Garance has hit Reunion island, causing heavy rain and winds above 200 km/h, prompting residents to stay indoors. Widespread damage and power outages were reported, affecting around 30% of homes. Approximately 683 people sought refuge in shelters, and evacuation measures were initiated. No fatalities have been reported, but concerns about ongoing severe conditions persist.

Tropical Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, prompting authorities to advise residents to remain indoors on Friday. The cyclone produced heavy rainfall and winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), resulting in floods, power outages, and building damage across the island. The prefecture reported that approximately 683 individuals took refuge in emergency shelters, while 54 people were evacuated due to potential flooding and landslide risks, with no fatalities reported as of now.

As the storm progressed, around 30% of homes were left without electricity, and nearly 10% of Reunion’s population of 885,000 faced a shortage of drinking water. Strong winds caused significant destruction, including the removal of roofs, doors, and windows from many structures. To assist affected areas in the east, tarpaulins were dispatched for temporary shelter.

Although the highest-level purple cyclone warning was lifted on Friday morning, authorities maintained a red warning, advising residents to remain inside due to persistent heavy rainfall and strong winds throughout the day. The national weather agency, Meteo France, recorded winds reaching 214 kilometers per hour at the island’s main airport, indicating the cyclone’s severity.

Reunion island is situated approximately 1,500 kilometers southeast of Mayotte, another French territory that suffered severe damage from Cyclone Chido in December. Local authorities have confirmed 40 fatalities as a result of that cyclone, with 41 individuals reported missing or presumed buried. There are grave concerns that the death toll may rise further.

In conclusion, Cyclone Garance has significantly impacted Reunion island, leading to widespread destruction, power outages, and water shortages. Despite the absence of reported fatalities, local authorities have taken preventive measures to safeguard residents amidst ongoing severe weather conditions. Historical context with Cyclone Chido highlights the vulnerability of the region to such devastating natural disasters.

Original Source: apnews.com