Residents of Réunion Island are bracing for the impending impact of Tropical Storm Garance, which is currently situated approximately 390 kilometers from the island. On February 26, 2025, local authorities issued an orange cyclone alert, triggering the closure of educational institutions and public services as anticipation builds toward what could be a significant weather event.
According to Météo France, the storm is advancing at a speed of nine kilometers per hour, with maximum wind gusts reported at 130 km/h over water. The storm is expected to approach the island by Thursday evening, with predictions indicating it may intensify to category 3/5 status, posing substantial risks to the local population. "Nous sommes sur une menace importante et sérieuse," stated Céline Jauffret, the director of Météo France Indian Ocean, during a recent press conference.
Authorities have urged the residents to limit their movements and prepare for deteriorated weather. With winds already reaching 95 km/h, concerns over severe flooding and potential property damage are heightened. The prefect of La Réunion echoed the urgency by encouraging residents to "je m’organise pour être bien protégé," emphasizing the importance of personal safety preparations.
Preparations across the island are underway as residents stockpile supplies and secure their homes against potentially catastrophic winds and rainfall. Schools, crèches, and community centers were closed as of 14:00 on the same day the alert was issued, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. While businesses have been advised to encourage telecommuting, economic activities will continue, albeit with heightened caution.
The situation is complicated by the storm’s uncertain track, which could see Garance passing within less than 50 to 70 kilometers off the coast of Réunion. Some models even suggest it could evolve overnight, leading to tropical cyclone conditions as it approaches. François Bonnardot of Météo France warned, "Il faut s’attendre à un impact sérieux de ce futur système qui pourrait générer des vents violents, destructeurs. Et puis un temps qui pourrait générer des inondations sur l’île.”
Such warnings come amid memories of previous devastating storms, highlighting Réunion’s vulnerability to such climatic events. Historically, the island has faced numerous cyclones, with the cyclone Belal of January 2024 leaving behind fatalities and property damages totaling around €100 million. That storm came alarmingly close—a reminder of the risks presented whenever tropical systems target this region. Reports indicate Garance could follow suit historically, as similar systems have moved through this area on rare occasions.
This impending cyclone joins the tragic memory of past storms, incorporating the history of Cyclone Hyacinthe, which caused record-breaking rainfall back in 1980, and Cyclone Colina, whose direct hit was felt as recently as 1993. Such markers remind residents of the substantial peril posed by systems passing near the small island. "La tempête constitue une menace importante et sérieuse," Jauffret reiterated, emphasizing the reliability of modern meteorological modeling to predict potential dangers.
Officials reiterate the importance of remaining informed, with continuous updates being issued through Météo France and local media outlets. The authorities not only caution against complacency but also stress the importance of residents constructing "catakit" preparedness kits containing essentials such as food, water, documents, and first aid supplies. There are also calls for families to designate emergency shelters should the need for evacuation arise.
Looking to the immediate future, the situation could escalate to red alert status, which would enforce stricter movement limitations for residents, excluding emergency services. Businesses and residents are preparing as conditions are expected to worsen with each passing hour. Local leaders stress communication through social media and news to keep everyone informed as Tropical Storm Garance approaches.
With uncertainty still looming in the forecasts, the island's response has been characterized by proactive measures, community cohesion, and resilient spirit as they collectively prepare for the worst. Local citizens are reminded to heed warnings, stay updated on storm developments, and prioritize safety above all as they face what may evolve from a rapidly intensifying tropical storm to one of significant consequence for Réunion Island.
One thing is certain: as Tropical Storm Garance continues on its course, the spirit of preparedness remains ever-present among the people of Réunion Island, underscoring their resilience against nature’s impending challenges.