Severe flooding struck Mauritius as Tropical Cyclone Belal neared the region after causing extensive damage in the French overseas territory of Reunion. Videos circulated on social media depicted cars submerged or carried away by overwhelming floods inundating the streets.
In response to the approaching cyclone, Mauritius’ international airport announced an indefinite closure. Banks, government offices, and various private businesses also shut down as the Mauritius Meteorological Services (MMS) issued a Class 3 cyclone warning.
The MMS urged the public to seek refuge in secure locations due to the anticipated “torrential rain conditions” in the upcoming hours.
The cyclone, positioned approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) west of Le Morne, was moving east-southeast at a rate of about 12 kilometers per hour. The weather agency of Mauritius emphasized the perilous proximity of Cyclone Belal to the region, posing a significant threat to the island.