La Réunion Island Raises Highest ‘Purple Alert’ as Cyclone Nears

SAINT-DENIS DE LA RÉUNION, 28 February 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Authorities in La Réunion placed the Indian Ocean island under its highest “purple alert” on Friday as Cyclone Garance approached, posing a severe threat of direct impact.

“Faced with a direct impact, with wind gusts exceeding 200 km/h (around 125 miles per hour), the prefect will trigger the purple alert,” authorities announced in a press release published on X.

La Réunion and neighbouring Mauritius—situated approximately 225 kilometres (140 miles) to the northeast—have been on high alert since Wednesday as the powerful cyclone neared the popular tourist destinations.

Mauritius closed its main airport on Wednesday, with La Réunion following suit on Thursday as authorities braced for potentially catastrophic conditions.

Weather agency Météo-France has warned that the cyclone could make direct landfall on La Réunion, urging the island’s population of around 900,000 to remain indoors and take all necessary precautions.

A History of Severe Storms

La Réunion, a French overseas department, frequently experiences extreme weather events during the cyclone season, which typically lasts from November to April. In the past, the island has recorded some of the highest rainfall levels ever documented during tropical storms, often leading to devastating floods and landslides.

The latest warnings echo concerns raised during previous cyclones, such as Cyclone Batsirai in 2022, which caused widespread power outages and infrastructure damage in the region.

Authorities have mobilised emergency response teams and reinforced critical infrastructure in anticipation of severe weather conditions. Residents have been advised to stock up on essential supplies, secure their homes, and remain vigilant for further updates from local officials.

With the cyclone’s landfall imminent, both La Réunion and Mauritius remain on high alert, prepared to face the full force of nature’s fury.