Cyclone Garance struck La Reunion, killing at least three and causing extensive damage with winds up to 155 mph. Significant power outages affected about 180,000 households, and emergency measures are in place. The cyclone’s severity has led to fear among residents, but efforts to assess damage and provide aid are underway as weather conditions begin to improve.
Cyclone Garance has devastated La Reunion, a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean, causing severe destruction and loss of life. Authorities report that at least three individuals have succumbed to the cyclone’s force as it made landfall, unleashing winds reaching 155 mph. The storm struck the northern part of the island on Friday, displacing roofs and disrupting access to essential services like electricity and drinking water for numerous residents.
The cyclone exited the southwest of the island hours later, according to Meteo France, which confirmed that the most severe conditions had passed. However, a mandatory stay-at-home order remains in effect as rescue teams assess damage and provide aid to the affected areas. A shift in the storm’s alert level from purple, the highest, to red, permitted rescue operations to commence once conditions eased slightly.
French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou addressed the situation on social media, urging residents to adhere to directives provided by local authorities. He expressed his condolences for those impacted by the storm. Reports indicate that approximately 180,000 households, constituting about 42 percent of local electricity consumers, are experiencing power outages, and around 10 percent of households lack access to potable water.
Residents have voiced their fear and experiences during the cyclone. Vincent Clain, a resident of Sainte-Marie, expressed, “This is the first time I’ve seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I’ve been afraid.” Another resident, Aline Etheve, recounted her anxiety over potential damage to her home, stating, “I must admit I’m a little scared.” Many have taken shelter indoors, relying on the safety of their homes amid the cyclone’s fury.
Many services in the region have faced disruptions; the nearby island of Mauritius has halted operations at its main airport ahead of the cyclone impacting air travel. La Reunion’s international airport has also ceased operations, with plans to reopen on Saturday. Residents await better weather conditions and recovery efforts from this devastating natural disaster.
In summary, Cyclone Garance has wreaked havoc on La Reunion, resulting in casualties and extensive property damage. Nearly half of the island’s population has been affected by power outages, and the local government has enacted measures to protect residents. With weather conditions slowly improving, rescue operations are set to commence, aiming to restore essential services to those in need. The resilience of the community will be vital in the recovery process following this calamity.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
