Cyclone Garance has struck La Réunion with devastating force, unleashing wind gusts reaching up to 200 km/h. The storm has led to significant disruptions, including power outages affecting one-third of the island's 900,000 residents and severe water shortages for about 100,000 people. Emergency shelters have been established to accommodate approximately 700 individuals seeking refuge from the storm's fury. The situation escalated to the highest alert level, with authorities urging residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Airports on La Réunion and nearby Mauritius have closed, further complicating the situation for tourists and locals alike.
The island's residents are bracing for extreme weather conditions, as the storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and dangerously high swells. Local farmers express feelings of helplessness in the face of such unprecedented natural events. French President Macron has called for vigilance as the island faces the threat of flooding and additional hazards.
This severe cyclone follows a pattern of increasingly extreme weather events, raising concerns over the impacts of climate change. The last major cyclone to hit La Réunion in 2024 resulted in four fatalities, highlighting the need for preparedness and effective response strategies. With additional rescue forces being mobilized from Mayotte and mainland France, the community is coming together to navigate the challenges posed by Cyclone Garance.
