Reunion Island storm hits hard, displacing thousands

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Reunion Island hunkered down as a major storm hit, leaving streets deserted as residents sought shelter. Authorities warned of the storm’s devastating potential.

Reunion Island Braces for the Impact of Tropical Storm Belal

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Published on: January 15, 2024 Description: cyclone belal hit reunion ! Strong storm hit Réunion island caused significant damage . cyclone Belal hit reunion today The French ...

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In the face of impending danger, the residents of Reunion Island have taken shelter in their homes, heeding the warnings of authorities who have urged them to prepare for a potentially devastating tropical storm. The storm, named Belal, is expected to make landfall on the island, located in the Indian Ocean, on Sunday night, bringing with it torrential rains, powerful winds, and the threat of widespread damage.

Reunion Island Storm Hits: A Call for Caution and Preparation

Authorities have issued a red alert for Reunion Island, urging residents to stock up on food and water and remain indoors for 36 hours, starting from 8 pm local time on Sunday. The last major cyclone to hit the island was in 2014, but the memory of Jenny, a deadly cyclone that battered Reunion in 1962, still lingers in the minds of many.

Reunion Island Storm Hits: Hunkering Down and Taking Precautions

Jules Dafreville, a resident of the capital city Saint-Denis, expressed his determination to stay indoors until the red alert is lifted on Tuesday morning. He emphasized the importance of following the instructions of authorities and avoiding any unnecessary risks.

Businesses and public spaces have taken precautions to minimize damage. Olivier Blondet, the manager of several establishments in Saint-Denis, secured outdoor furniture and removed any objects that could be swept away by strong winds.

Reunion Island Storm Hits: Preparing for the Worst

The island’s main airport has suspended flight operations in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. Authorities fear that Belal, currently classified as a “strong tropical storm,” could intensify into an “intense tropical cyclone” as it passes over or near the island.

Meteorologists have warned of destructive winds exceeding 200 km/h on the coast and potentially reaching speeds of 250 km/h or more in the highlands. These winds pose a significant threat, capable of causing severe damage to infrastructure and property.

Reunion Island Storm Hits: Community Spirit in the Face of Adversity

Despite the looming storm, there are heartwarming stories of community spirit emerging from Reunion Island. In Saint-Denis, around twenty homeless people were taken to a shelter, demonstrating the island’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable residents.

As Reunion Island awaits the impact of Tropical Storm Belal, the resilience and determination of its people shine through. By following the instructions of authorities and taking necessary precautions, the island’s residents are doing their best to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

FAQ’s

1. What is Tropical Storm Belal?

Tropical Storm Belal is an impending storm expected to make landfall on Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean on Sunday night. It brings the threat of torrential rains, powerful winds, and widespread damage.

2. What precautions are being taken by authorities?

Authorities have issued a red alert for Reunion Island, urging residents to stock up on food and water, remain indoors for 36 hours starting from 8 pm local time on Sunday, and follow instructions to avoid unnecessary risks.

3. What are residents doing to prepare for the storm?

Residents are heeding the warnings of authorities by staying indoors, securing their homes and businesses, and removing objects that could be swept away by strong winds.

4. What is the potential impact of Tropical Storm Belal?

Meteorologists have warned of destructive winds exceeding 200 km/h on the coast and potentially reaching speeds of 250 km/h or more in the highlands, posing a significant threat to infrastructure and property.

5. How is the community coming together in the face of the storm?

There are heartwarming stories of community spirit emerging from Reunion Island, such as the shelter provided for homeless people in Saint-Denis, demonstrating the island’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable residents.

Links to additional Resources:

1. https://www.meteofrance.re/ 2. https://www.ipgp.fr/ 3. https://www.reunion.gouv.fr/.