Tropical Cyclone Garance Causes Fatalities and Widespread Outages in Réunion

Tropical Cyclone Garance hit Réunion on February 28, 2025, resulting in at least four fatalities and extensive power outages affecting over 180,000 residents. With winds reaching 155 km/h (95 mph) and gusts exceeding 200 km/h (125 mph), the storm caused widespread damage to infrastructure and essential services. Authorities lifted the red alert but advised residents to exercise caution due to lingering hazards.

Tropical Cyclone Garance struck the northern coast of Réunion at 10:00 local time (06:00 UTC) on February 28, 2025, resulting in devastating winds and heavy rainfall. The cyclone caused the deaths of at least four individuals and left over 180,000 people without vital services, including electricity, water, and internet access.

Garance was classified as a Category 3 hurricane at landfall, with sustained winds reaching up to 155 km/h (95 mph) and gusts exceeding 200 km/h (125 mph). Notably, Meteo-France recorded gusts of 214 km/h (133 mph) at Gillot Airport, the highest since Cyclone Jenny in 1962. Some areas experienced even sharper winds, with gusts peaking at 234 km/h (145 mph).

The storm inflicted severe damage across the island, with widespread destruction, uprooted trees, and blown-off roofs. Approximately 30% of households lost power, while 10% experienced water outages. Utility services were significantly impacted, with 182,000 households without electricity, 171,000 without water, and 134,000 lacking internet access.

As of March 1, local authorities reported four fatalities attributed to the cyclone, with earlier reports mentioning three. By that date, Garance had diminished to a strong tropical storm after moving across the island. Although the red alert was lifted, residents were advised to remain vigilant due to ongoing hazards such as fallen power lines and flooding.

France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau described Cyclone Garance as exhibiting “rare intensity,” while Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated that troops and firefighters were on standby for potential deployment from nearby Mayotte and mainland France when conditions safely allowed. Approximately 100 personnel were prepared for assistance in the aftermath of the cyclone as recovery efforts began.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Garance has had a significant and tragic impact on Réunion, claiming four lives and causing extensive damage. With over 180,000 households affected by utility outages and the community still recovering, authorities have lifted the red alert while urging continued caution. Preparation and assistance from the French armed forces reflect the ongoing efforts to manage the aftermath and restore normalcy.

Original Source: watchers.news