La Réunion, France - On Sunday, February 23, 2025, Météo France placed the island of Reunion under a yellow alert due to expected heavy rains and storms. The alert began at 2 PM local time and was forecasted to last until 7 PM the same day.
The meteorological service warned of deteriorated weather conditions, stating, "Des conditions météorologiques dégradées" as intense showers and thunderstorms were set to impact several regions of the island. The Western, Southern, and Southeastern areas were particularly urged to remain vigilant as forecasts predicted significant rainfall and potential thunderstorm activity.
By early afternoon, the skies were shrouded with high clouds obscuring the sun at times. Rainfall over the northern and eastern parts of the island was gradually diminishing, paving the way for predominantly cloudy weather. Météo France detailed, "Sous un voile de nuages élevés occultant par moments le soleil, des averses d’intensité parfois modérée se déclenchent alors sur les hauteurs de l’Ouest et du Sud-Ouest principalement." Heavy showers were expected to drift toward the coastline, especially between Saint-Paul and Saint-Leu.
Authorities were quick to react, urging residents to exercise caution during these conditions. The public was advised against travelling through flood-prone areas and to avoid submerged roads. Météo France strongly recommended staying tuned to updates from emergency services throughout the event.
Despite the foreboding weather predictions, the alert remained under constant review, and by 4 PM, Météo France announced the lifting of the yellow alert for the entire island. They indicated weather conditions were stabilizing, and the heavy rains were subsiding.
While some thunderstorms were noticeable, with their associated thunderclaps, the overall impact of the storm system lessened before its expected end time. Residents were relieved as the sky began to clear gradually, heralding the return of clearer weather by the late afternoon.
Even as the vigilance was lifted, the situation served as a reminder for the community to remain aware of weather conditions, particularly during times when heavy rainfall is predicted. Météo France confirmed their commitment to monitoring the situation closely and issuing timely updates as necessary.
This yellow alert highlighted the significance of preparedness and swift action when it came to severe weather phenomena affecting the picturesque island of Reunion.