Tropical Cyclone Garance Devastates Reunion Island, Causing Fatalities and Damage

Tropical Cyclone Garance struck Reunion Island on Friday, causing at least three deaths, extensive flooding, power outages, and evacuations. With winds surpassing 200 kilometers per hour, the island faced severe weather, leading to emergency measures and significant infrastructure damage. Authorities continue to aid the affected population amid ongoing threats from the storm.

On Friday, the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion was severely impacted by Tropical Cyclone Garance, leaving at least three individuals dead, as reported by local police. The storm brought destructive winds and torrential rains, prompting officials to instruct residents to remain indoors. With gusts exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), the cyclone led to widespread flooding, infrastructure damage, and power outages across the island.

Emergency shelters housed 847 residents, while 54 individuals were evacuated due to risks associated with flooding and landslides. Authorities reported that approximately 182,000 residents were without electricity, and 171,000 lost access to potable water. The cyclone significantly damaged buildings, displacing roofs, doors, and windows, with tarp supplies dispatched to affected areas, particularly in the island’s eastern region.

As of Friday morning, the purple cyclone warning, the highest alert level, was lifted, allowing for the commencement of rescue operations. However, the island remained under a red warning due to the continuous threat of severe weather conditions, urging residents to stay indoors amid forecasts of heavy rains and strong winds. The national weather agency, Meteo France, recorded wind speeds of 214 kilometers per hour (133 mph) at the main airport on the island.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Garance has wreaked havoc on Reunion Island, resulting in three confirmed fatalities, widespread evacuation, and significant infrastructure damage. Emergency measures are ongoing as authorities work to assist impacted residents. The cyclone’s powerful winds and rain have caused considerable disruption, leaving thousands without power or access to clean water. Further efforts to restore safety and normalcy are being implemented in the aftermath of this natural disaster.

Original Source: www.voanews.com