Cyclone Garance Strikes Reunion Island, Resulting in Three Fatalities

Cyclone Garance has struck the island of Reunion, causing at least three deaths, widespread damage, power outages affecting 182,000 residents, and loss of drinking water for 171,000 individuals. Emergency shelters were utilized, and authorities have lifted the highest cyclone warning, yet heavy wind and rain are expected to continue.

A tropical storm, Cyclone Garance, has hit the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, resulting in at least three fatalities as reported by French police on Friday. The cyclone brought ferocious winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph) along with torrential rain, leading to significant flooding, power outages, and structural damage to buildings. Authorities urged residents to remain indoors due to these hazardous conditions while emergency measures were enacted.

In response to the crisis, 847 individuals sought refuge in emergency shelters, with an additional 54 evacuated due to the impending dangers of flooding and landslides. Approximately 182,000 residents experienced power outages, while around 171,000 lacked access to drinking water. The force of the storm caused extensive damage, with many buildings suffering ripped-off roofs and shattered windows. Tarpaulins were dispatched to offer temporary shelter to those affected in the eastern region of the island.

The national police confirmed the three deaths without disclosing specific circumstances surrounding the tragedies. Additionally, the cyclonic warning, classified as a purple warning— the highest level, was lifted, thereby permitting rescue operations to commence. Despite this, a red warning persisted for the island, as heavy rain and strong winds were forecasted to continue throughout the day, necessitating caution among residents.

Meteo France, the national weather agency, noted winds peaked at 214 kilometers per hour (133 mph) at the main airport of Reunion Island. This region is situated about 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) southeast of the French territory of Mayotte, which experienced devastating effects from Cyclone Chido in December, where authorities confirmed 40 fatalities and 41 individuals reported missing, raising fears of additional casualties.

In summary, Cyclone Garance has resulted in severe consequences for the island of Reunion, including fatalities, extensive damage, and significant disruptions to essential services. Emergency response efforts have been initiated, yet residents remain under a warning as adverse weather persists. The situation remains critical, highlighting the vulnerability of island communities to extreme weather events.

Original Source: www.voanews.com