Réunion Island is grappling with the devastating aftermath of Cyclone Garance, a powerful storm that swept across the island from north to south between Friday and Saturday. The cyclone has left a trail of destruction, with at least four people dead and five injured, according to local authorities. The island is now assessing the full extent of the damage, which includes uprooted trees, cars swept away by floodwaters, and widespread power outages.
Island Under Lockdown and Alert
Prior to the cyclone's arrival, a purple alert was issued, triggering a strict lockdown for the entire population of La Réunion. This included the mobilization of law enforcement and emergency services in anticipation of what authorities described as a "wall" of force. The lockdown was later downgraded to a red alert, but residents remained confined as violent winds, exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, persisted. "The eye [of the storm] will cross the island and should emerge into the sea from the south within the next two or three hours," Météo-France predicted.
The prefect of Réunion described Cyclone Garance as "brutal" and "more violent than Cyclone Belal," which struck the island in 2024. This comparison underscores the severity of the recent storm and the challenges faced by the island's residents.
Damage Assessment Underway
As the storm passed, the focus shifted to assessing the damage. Reports indicate widespread destruction, with uprooted trees, vehicles swept away by floodwaters, and significant disruptions to infrastructure. The heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Garance triggered flash floods and inundations, further compounding the destructive effects on the island.
The situation remains challenging as authorities work to restore essential services and provide assistance to those affected by the storm. The full cost of the damage is still being determined, but it is clear that Cyclone Garance has had a significant impact on Réunion Island and its residents.
Looking Ahead
Réunion Island is now beginning the long process of recovery. The community is resilient, but the scale of the destruction is significant. The lessons learned from Cyclone Garance will undoubtedly inform future preparedness and response efforts to mitigate the impact of similar events.
"This phenomenon was more violent than Belal, the cyclone that struck the island in 2024," stated the prefect, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the storm.
The focus remains on providing support to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods and ensuring that the island can rebuild and recover from this devastating event.