Cyclone Garance forces airport closure, stranding tourists
Cyclone Garance is approaching Mauritius, and authorities have been forced to close the island's only airport, leaving tourists unable to leave.
All flights to and from Mauritius have been cancelled. The island's authorities closed Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport on Thursday until further notice due to the approaching Cyclone Garance.
Tourists staying on the island have been advised to avoid the ocean shores as a very dangerous situation is developing.
Meteorological warnings: Strong winds and expected floods
Mauritius meteorological services issued a cyclone warning as early as Wednesday, when it was located about 270 kilometres northwest of the island. On Thursday, wind speeds exceeded 70 kilometres per hour, accompanied by heavy rainfall.
The cyclone is "dangerously approaching Mauritius and constitutes a direct threat," the meteorological service reported. Meteorologists are also warning of floods.
The airport operator, Airports of Mauritius (AML), recommends that people planning to travel contact their airlines for flight status updates. "Intending passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for further information on the status of their flights and not to proceed to the airport, unless receiving confirmation of the revised departure time," announced AML.
The decision to close the airport was also made by the neighbouring island of Réunion. Authorities of both islands have instructed residents to stay indoors and prepare for power and water outages. It is advised to use phones only in situations deemed "absolutely necessary."
Last year, nearly 1.4 million tourists visited Mauritius, including over 11,000 from Poland. Those who chose this destination at the end of February this year must extend their holiday and wait for weather conditions to improve.
