The idyllic islands of Mauritius and La Réunion, known for their turquoise waters and breathtaking landscapes, are now facing a different kind of visitor—Cyclone Garance. The intense tropical storm, which has been labeled a “direct threat”, is rapidly approaching the region, bringing with it strong winds, torrential rain, and potential flooding.
As both islands prepare for impact, authorities have already begun shutting down airports, closing schools, and issuing severe weather warnings to keep residents safe. With the cyclone gaining strength and shifting its course, the next 24 hours will be critical in determining the full extent of its impact.
Cyclone Garance: A Growing Threat
Cyclone Garance was initially categorized as a Class 3 cyclone—the second-highest alert level in Mauritius. The storm, which was 310 kilometers northwest of the island as of Thursday morning, has continued to intensify, with meteorologists now referring to it as an “intense tropical storm.”
According to the Mauritius Meteorological Service, the cyclone is moving eastward but has now begun curving south, which means it will likely pass between Mauritius and La Réunion. While a direct landfall isn’t certain, the storm’s close proximity still poses a serious threat to both islands.
●This is not a great news at all as the biggest threat of (The cyclone )is coming closer by Mauritius.
Meanwhile, in La Réunion, authorities are preparing for an even stronger impact. The French weather service, Météo-France, has warned that the storm’s peak intensity will be felt late Thursday into the night, with some of the island’s highest points experiencing gusts of over 150 kph (93 mph).
Flight Suspensions and Safety Measures
With extreme weather on the horizon, precautionary measures are already in full swing.
Airport Closures and Flight Suspensions
- Mauritius’ main airport was closed on Wednesday, with Air Mauritius suspending all flights “until further notice.”
- La Réunion’s Roland Garros Airport is expected to follow suit, with officials preparing to shut down operations on Thursday as the cyclone moves closer.
For travelers and residents, this means significant flight cancellations and disruptions, leaving many stranded until the storm passes.
Schools and Public Safety
- Schools in La Réunion were already closed from Wednesday afternoon to ensure students and staff remain safe.
- Authorities in both regions have urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, especially as the storm’s winds and rainfall intensify.
In La Réunion, officials are considering declaring a “red alert”, the most severe warning level. Under this alert, the entire population would be required to stay indoors, with only emergency services allowed to operate.
Potential Dangers: What to Expect
While Mauritius and La Réunion are no strangers to tropical storms, Cyclone Garance’s unpredictable path and increasing intensity have raised serious concerns. Here’s what both islands can expect in the coming hours:
1. Powerful Winds
- Wind speeds could exceed 150 kph in some areas, particularly in higher altitudes of La Réunion.
- These strong gusts increase the risk of fallen trees, flying debris, and infrastructure damage.
2. Heavy Rainfall & Flooding
- Torrential downpours will likely lead to flash floods, particularly in low-lying and coastal areas.
- Landslides could also occur in mountainous regions, further endangering residents.
3. Dangerous Sea Conditions
- The Indian Ocean is expected to experience rough seas with high waves and storm surges.
- Fishing boats and smaller vessels have been warned to remain docked to avoid dangerous waters.
Residents Prepare for the Storm
For those living in Mauritius and La Réunion, the hours leading up to Cyclone Garance’s arrival are being spent stocking up on essentials, securing homes, and preparing for power outages.
Local supermarkets have seen a surge in shoppers buying food, bottled water, and emergency supplies. Many families are reinforcing windows and doors to prevent storm damage, while others are making plans to evacuate to safer locations if conditions worsen.
Authorities continue to urge caution, reminding residents to:
✅ This is the best possible advice for everyone to follow please Stay indoors to prevent unnecessary trips.
✅ Charge phones and backup batteries in case of power outages.
✅ Store drinking water and ensure access to emergency supplies.
✅ Listen to official updates from meteorologists and local authorities.
Unpredictable Path: Could the Storm Get Worse?
One of the biggest concerns surrounding Cyclone Garance is its changing trajectory. While initial forecasts suggested it would move past Mauritius and La Réunion without direct landfall, new data suggests it could shift closer, increasing the potential for more severe impacts.
What the Experts Say
Céline Jauffray, a meteorologist at Météo-France, noted that while the storm’s path remains uncertain, the current “expected scenario” is a direct impact on La Réunion.
However, she emphasized that its intensity and exact course could still change, meaning that both islands need to remain on high alert.
Looking Ahead: When Will the Danger Pass?
Cyclone Garance is expected to peak in intensity late Thursday into Friday, meaning the worst of the storm could hit overnight.
If the cyclone continues on its projected course, weather conditions should gradually improve by the weekend, allowing airports to resume operations and public services to return to normal.
However, clean-up efforts may take time, especially if flooding and infrastructure damage occur. Authorities will likely conduct post-storm assessments to determine the full impact and reopen roads, airports, and schools as soon as it’s safe to do so.
Final Thoughts: A Nervous Wait
For the people of Mauritius and La Réunion, it’s now a waiting game. With Cyclone Garance growing stronger and its path uncertain, residents must stay vigilant and prepared for whatever comes next.
Authorities have done everything possible to minimize risks, but Mother Nature remains unpredictable. The hope is that both islands will be spared the worst, but only time will tell as the cyclone makes its final approach.
For now, all eyes remain on the skies—watching, waiting, and hoping for the best.
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