Mauritius, Reunion: Adverse weather forecast across Mauritius and Reunion through at least Feb. 2 /update 1

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecasted to continue across much of Mauritius and Reunion through at least Feb. 2. As of Jan. 30, the Mauritius Meteorological Service has issued a heavy rain warning across Mauritius's main island. Moderate-to-heavy rainfall has been observed in northern parts of the island and over the central plateau in early Jan. 30, and further downpours and possible thunderstorms are expected to develop over the central plateau and southern and western regions throughout the day. The heavy rain warning advises people to remain in a safe place, avoid flood-risk areas, and travel with caution due to reduced visibility. Authorities have also issued heavy rain and heavy swell warnings for Rodrigues Island due to the presence of a tropical disturbance to the northeast of the island. Classes have been suspended in public and private educational institutions across Mauritius Jan. 30 due to the severe weather.

Authorities in Reunion reported two fatalities due to vehicles being trapped in floodwaters following heavy rainfall Jan. 28, and further adverse weather is forecast in the coming hours and days. Meteo France La Reunion has issued orange heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across eastern and southeastern parts of the territory and yellow heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings across the rest of the territory through at least late Jan. 31. Officials have closed several schools across southern parts of Reunion as of Jan. 30.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

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 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

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.

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 Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU). 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.