Cyclone Garance Strikes Reunion Island, Residents Advised to Stay Indoors

Cyclone Garance has hit Reunion Island, with winds exceeding 200 km/h causing severe damage. Residents have been urged to stay indoors as authorities address flooding and power issues. Emergency shelters have been set up for those displaced, and rescue operations are underway even while a red warning remains in place due to ongoing severe weather conditions.

Tropical Cyclone Garance has struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, prompting authorities to advise residents to remain indoors. The cyclone has unleashed severe rain and winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), resulting in flooding, power outages, and structural damage across the island. Emergency measures are in place as authorities assess the situation and respond to the needs of affected individuals.

As reported by the Reunion prefecture, approximately 683 residents have sought refuge in emergency shelters, and an additional 54 individuals have been evacuated due to concerns over potential flooding and landslides. Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities thus far. However, around 30% of the homes on the island are without electricity, affecting nearly 10% of the population, which totals around 885,000 inhabitants.

The prefecture has indicated that high winds have torn off roofs, doors, and windows from numerous structures. In response, tarpaulins are being distributed to the hardest-hit areas, particularly in the eastern region of the island, to provide temporary shelter for those affected. The highest level purple cyclone warning was lifted on Friday morning, allowing rescue operations to commence; however, a red warning remains in effect as heavy rain and wind are expected to continue throughout the day.

The national weather agency, Meteo France, reported wind speeds reaching as high as 214 kilometers per hour at the island’s main airport. Reunion Island is located approximately 1,500 kilometers southeast of Mayotte, which recently faced a devastating cyclone, Cyclone Chido, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction.

In summary, Cyclone Garance has severely impacted Reunion Island, leading to power outages, structural damage, and an urgent need for emergency shelter among residents. Despite no fatalities reported as of yet, the situation remains critical as heavy rain and winds persist. Authorities continue their efforts to provide assistance and ensure the safety of the island’s population while emphasizing the importance of remaining indoors during this natural disaster.

Original Source: apnews.com