Tropical Storm Garance is rapidly approaching Reunion Island, posing serious weather threats as Météo France has issued an orange cyclonic alert effective from Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 2 PM local time. The storm has raised concerns among residents and officials as forecasts indicate it could come within 70 kilometers of the island, possibly reaching intense tropical cyclone status.
According to Météo France, conditions for Garance to strengthen are favorable, particularly as it progresses toward the island. "She could then approach the intense tropical cyclone stage," Météo France warned, heightening fears of significant meteorological dangers.
Schools and childcare facilities are scheduled to close as part of the safety measures being implemented. The prefecture of Reunion Island has advised the population to prioritize remote work and limit unnecessary travel. Residents are urged to prepare emergency supplies, including food and water, as the storm is projected to bring hazardous conditions including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas.
Céline Jauffret, the interregional director of Météo France for the Indian Ocean, discussed the seriousness of the approaching storm during a press briefing. "Garance is considered a very serious threat to the island... It is likely to pass within 70 kilometers of Reunion, resulting in significantly degraded weather conditions," she stated. The prefecture's guidelines highlight the urgency of preparation as the anticipated impact could begin as early as Wednesday.
At present, the storm is located about 475 km from Reunion Island, but as it makes its way closer, the risk to life and property is on the rise. The alert not only signals immediate weather threats but also stresses the importance of community preparedness and resilience.
To mitigate the risks, the local government has suspended port activities and modified flight schedules at the international airport, reflecting the need for precaution. Transport services for schools will continue until the end of the day on Wednesday to allow students—especially those living on campus—to return home.
Jauffret noted the unusual west-to-east movement of Garance, as cyclonic storms typically follow east-to-west patterns within the Indian Ocean. This peculiarity has raised additional concerns among meteorologists, who highlight the unpredictable nature of tropical storms.
Officials have urged businesses to facilitate remote work during the storm's approach, and safety protocols are being reinforced across various sectors. With the storm expected to reach peak intensity by Wednesday evening or Thursday night, the community is bracing for significant impacts.
The last cyclonic alert issued for Reunion was in January 2024, marking the urgency and frequency with which these weather events affect the island nation. That previous alert was classified as violet, the highest threat level, this time around, officials are conducting clear and structured communications to manage public expectations and safety. Another shift to red alert, which involves total confinement of the population except for emergency services, is possible depending on how the situation evolves.
With the forecast painting a picture of heavy rainfall, rough seas, and potential flooding, the impact of Tropical Storm Garance could be felt across the island’s economy and day-to-day life. With schools, public transport, and port operations already affected, residents are preparing for the worst as they keep close attention on updates from Météo France.
So far, the community response has incorporated preventative measures, with many residents stocking up on essentials to prepare for the storm. Utilizing experience from previous cyclones, local authorities are working to communicate timely updates and necessary precautions, ensuring public safety stands as the top priority.
The next few days are pivotal as Garance moves through the ocean, and Reunion Island must stay alert and prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.