Cyclone Garance has devastated Reunion island, claiming three lives and affecting the power and water supply to over 300,000 residents. The cyclone made landfall with winds up to 234 km/h, prompting local authorities to enforce maximum alerts and warnings. Rescue operations are being prepared with military forces on standby as recovery efforts commence.
Cyclone Garance has caused significant devastation in Reunion island, claiming the lives of three individuals. The cyclone reached gusts of up to 234 km/h (145 mph), leaving over 180,000 homes without electricity and 170,000 without access to running water. The local government imposed a maximum alert level, urging the entire population, including emergency services, to remain indoors until further notice.
Heavy rain continued to fall on the island, with Prime Minister Francois Bayrou cautioning that the cyclone remained a serious threat. Authorities noted that the hurricane’s impact was more destructive than that of Cyclone Belal, which resulted in four fatalities in January 2024. Cyclone Garance made landfall in the northern region of the island before moving south and exiting by late afternoon according to Meteo France.
The remarkable wind speed recorded had not been seen since Cyclone Hollanda in February 1994. A local resident, Vincent Clain, illustrated the severity of the situation by stating, “This is the first time I’ve seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I’ve been afraid.” In preparation for post-cyclone recovery, around 100 troops and firefighters from Mayotte and another 100 from mainland France were poised for deployment.
Moreover, a 55-year-old male resident went missing in Mauritius after swimming in hazardous ocean conditions. France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau highlighted Cyclone Garance’s unusual intensity, while Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu noted that military assistance was available if needed.
Cyclone Garance has tragically resulted in three fatalities and significant infrastructural damage in Reunion island. The extreme weather conditions brought by the cyclone warranted a maximum alert, with heavy rain and strong winds impacting daily life. Recovery efforts are underway, with emergency authorities and military resources placed on standby to assist in the aftermath of this devastating event.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
