Tourist islands in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius and Reunion, have declared a state of high alert due to the approach of Cyclone Garance, a category 3 storm with winds reaching up to 200 km/h. Airports are closed, and a “purple alert” has been issued in Reunion. Residents are urged to stay indoors as flooding and severe weather conditions are expected.
Mauritius and Reunion islands are currently under heightened alert as Cyclone Garance approaches, bringing wind speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. As a result, both islands have declared a state of high alert. Airports in Mauritius and Reunion have closed due to the imminent threat posed by this severe tropical storm, classified as a category 3 cyclone.
On Friday, authorities in Reunion Island raised the alert level to “purple,” the highest possible, due to the cyclone’s potential impact. The prefect of the region indicated that wind gusts exceeding 200 km/h were expected, prompting citizens to remain indoors for safety. The Mauritius Meteorological Service reported that the cyclone was situated 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and poses a serious threat of flooding.
Cyclone Garance, which had been moving eastward, has shifted south and is anticipated to track between the two islands. The current forecast suggests it will pass within 50 kilometers of Reunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning. The meteorological authorities have warned the population of Reunion, approximately 900,000 residents, to prepare for significant weather disturbances.
In summary, the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and Reunion are on high alert due to Cyclone Garance. Airports are closed, and a “purple alert” has been issued in Reunion as the storm approaches with dangerous wind speeds. Authorities caution residents to stay indoors as the cyclone poses a serious flood risk and direct threat to the islands.
Original Source: unn.ua
