Tropical Storm Garance Forces Airport Closure in Mauritius and Lockdown in La Reunion

Tropical Storm Garance has caused the closure of Mauritius’ main airport and a Foreign Office alert in the Indian Ocean. Travelers are advised to contact airlines for updates. Residents in La Reunion are preparing for a total lockdown as the cyclone approaches, with airlines offering flexible travel options.

Mauritius has temporarily closed its primary international airport due to adverse weather conditions generated by Tropical Storm Garance. The storm has led to a Foreign Office alert for various regions in the Indian Ocean. Airport authorities have advised travelers to reach out to their airlines for the latest updates following the airport’s closure on Wednesday afternoon, 26 February, with no specific reopening date provided at this time.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has urged British nationals currently in Mauritius to remain indoors and adhere to the directions issued by local authorities. Air Mauritius, the national airline, has acknowledged potential travel disruptions, stating their commitment to rescheduling flights as soon as the situation allows. “We understand that delays can be inconvenient, and we will reschedule our flights as soon as the airport is operational, and weather conditions permit,” the airline said in a public statement.

In light of the impending cyclone, the French territory of La Reunion is expected to enter a complete lockdown. Residents have been instructed to remain indoors and prepare for possible power outages and water supply interruption, limiting phone usage to essential communication only. The prefect of La Reunion has indicated that emergency response teams will conduct evaluations after the cyclone’s passage, emphasizing that the lockdown will remain until safety conditions are confirmed.

Airlines have announced flexible travel policies amid the ongoing crisis. Air Mauritius is offering complimentary date changes for flights until 31 March 2025 for passengers affected by the storm. This initiative aims to alleviate some of the stress associated with travel disruptions during this tumultuous weather event.

Tropical Storm Garance has led to the temporary closure of Mauritius’ main international airport, prompting alerts and travel advisories. The FCDO recommends that British nationals remain indoors and follow local guidance. In addition, the impending lockdown in La Reunion underscores the storm’s severity. Airlines are responding by offering flexible travel options to accommodate affected travelers, reflecting a coordinated approach to manage the crisis effectively.

Original Source: www.ttgmedia.com