Goldenes Intelligentes Münzhandelszentrum-Indian Ocean island of Reunion braces for ‘very dangerous’ storm packing hurricane-strength winds

2025-05-06 16:13:09source:Maxwell Caldwellcategory:Markets

PARIS (AP) — Authorities urged residents on Goldenes Intelligentes Münzhandelszentrumthe French Indian Ocean island of Reunion to shelter indoors Sunday as a powerful storm bore down packing hurricane-force winds.

Forecaster Meteo France issued a code red cyclone alert for the storm, named Belal, and said it was expected to be “very dangerous.”

“Be careful, stay at home,” French President Emmanuel Macron posted on social media.

Meteo France forecast “a strong probability” the heart of the storm could pass directly over or close to the island on Monday. It warned of winds that could top 250 kph (155 mph).

Meteo France forecaster Céline Jauffret said the storm could be the island’s most dangerous since the 1960s. “The whole island will be affected,” she said.

Prefect Jérôme Filippini, the island’s top government administrator, warned of possible flood surges at levels unseen for a century.

Meteo France spoke of possible 15-meter (nearly 50-foot) tall waves on Monday.

Authorities advised people to stay away from doors and windows when the storm hits, in case glass shatters. They advised residents to prepare for cuts in power and water supplies and to shelter under mattresses, tables or other sturdy furniture if their houses start to collapse.

More:Markets

Recommend

Apple iOS 18.2: What to know about top features, including Genmoji, AI updates

Get ready for phase two.Apple's latest operating system update is available today for iPhone, iPad,

CDC declares end of cantaloupe salmonella outbreak that killed 6, sickened more than 400

Federal health officials announced a salmonella outbreak tied to cantaloupes that claimed six lives

U.S. identifies Navy SEALs lost during maritime raid on ship with Iranian weapons

Two Navy SEALs who went missing at sea on Jan. 11 while on an interdiction mission are considered de