14 Mar 2022 | 11:43 AM UTC
Mauritius: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least March 19
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across much of Mauritius through at least March 19. Disruptions due to flooding ongoing.
Event
Heavy rainfall across parts of Manutius in recent days has triggered flooding, including in the capital Port Louis, and further adverse weather is forecast through at least March 19. As of March 14, the Mauritius Meteorological Service has issued a heavy rainfall warning across Mauritius. The service has warned of locally heavy showers spreading from the south across most of the island throughout the day. The intense downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying and riverine areas. Further localized showers and thunderstorms are forecast across parts Mauritius over the coming days and authorities will likely issue further weather warnings accordingly.
Heavy rainfall March 13 triggered flash flooding in Port Louis and other parts of the country. One fatality has been reported after a person got into difficulty hiking near the Noire River in the Bel Ombre area. Vehicles were swept away by floodwaters and four people had to be rescued from their homes in Vallee-des-Pretres on the eastern suburbs of Port Louis after more than 10 cm (4 inches) of rainfall fell in the region in the space of three hours. Floodwaters have blocked several roads, including parts of the M2 motorway in the capital. Schools are closed across Mauritius on March 14 due to the adverse weather.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, including - but not limited to - those serving Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (SRU). Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
