Cyclone Garance Causes Devastation and Loss of Life in Reunion

Cyclone Garance has caused three deaths in Reunion, resulting in severe infrastructural damage, including power outages for over 180,000 households. Emergency measures were enacted as residents were ordered to stay indoors while the cyclone wreaked havoc with winds reaching 234 km/h. Assistance from military personnel is on standby as authorities continue to respond to the disaster.

Cyclone Garance, a powerful tropical storm, has tragically claimed the lives of three individuals in Reunion, a French territory in the Indian Ocean. With winds reaching up to 234 km/h (145 mph), the cyclone caused extensive damage, leaving over 180,000 homes without electricity and 170,000 without access to running water after making landfall on Friday morning.

In light of the cyclone’s severity, the island’s entire population, including emergency responders, was ordered to remain indoors as the highest alert level was enacted. As heavy rains persisted through Friday evening, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou emphasized on social media that the cyclone continued to pose a significant threat to the residents.

Prefect Patrice Latron described the storm’s conditions as “brutal and violent,” surpassing those experienced during Cyclone Belal in January 2024, which had resulted in four fatalities. Cyclone Garance made landfall in northern Reunion around 10:00 local time (06:00 GMT), moving southward and exiting the island by late afternoon, according to the nation’s meteorological service, Meteo France.

Local authorities subsequently lowered the alert level by midday to facilitate the return of emergency services to action. This cyclone’s recorded wind speeds mark the highest since Cyclone Hollanda struck in February 1994. Vincent Clain, a resident from the northern coast, stated, “This is the first time I’ve seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I’ve been afraid,” conveying the fear instilled by the storm.

In preparation for potential emergency responses, approximately 100 troops and firefighters from the nearby French territory of Mayotte, located nearly 1,500 km (930 miles) away, are ready to assist. An additional 100 personnel from mainland France are also mobilized. Concurrently, Mauritius reported the disappearance of a 55-year-old man who went swimming in treacherous waters amidst the cyclone’s effects.

France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau characterized Cyclone Garance as one of “rare intensity,” while Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu confirmed that the armed forces are on standby to provide assistance if needed.

In summary, Cyclone Garance has devastated Reunion, resulting in three fatalities and widespread infrastructural damage. The storm’s intensity necessitated emergency measures, including a shelter-in-place order for the entire population. Authorities remain vigilant and prepared for any additional assistance required in the aftermath of this tragic event.

Original Source: www.bbc.com