Cyclone Garance Devastates Reunion Island, Claiming Three Lives in Its Fury

Three people have died in Reunion after Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean territory with winds reaching 234km/h (145mph) on February 28, 2025. The cyclone caused widespread damage, leaving over 180,000 homes without power and 170,000 without running water.

Cyclone Garance made landfall in the northern region of Reunion at 10:00 local time, with maximum winds recorded at 234km/h. This intensity has not been seen since Cyclone Hollanda in 1994. The storm’s destructive force prompted local authorities to issue a maximum alert, requiring the entire population, including emergency services, to stay indoors.

In the aftermath, local officials reported that the cyclone was more severe than Cyclone Belal, which resulted in four deaths earlier in January 2024. The storm left critical infrastructure severely impacted, with many residents still facing challenges accessing basic services. Key statistics include:

• Fatalities: 3
• Homes without power: 180,000
• Homes without running water: 170,000

Emergency services began to emerge from shelters by midday as the alert level was reduced. Approximately 100 troops and firefighters from Mayotte and another 100 from mainland France are on standby to assist with recovery efforts. Meanwhile, a 55-year-old man was reported missing in nearby Mauritius after swimming in rough seas, highlighting the broader impact of the cyclone across the region.

The destructive impact of Cyclone Garance has left Reunion grappling with significant challenges as recovery efforts begin. With emergency services mobilizing and additional support on the way, the focus now shifts to restoring essential services and ensuring the safety of residents.