Mauritius, Reunion: Adverse weather forecast across Mauritius and Reunion through at least Jan. 30

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across Mauritius main island and Reunion through at least Jan. 30. As of Jan. 29, the Mauritius Meteorological Service has issued a heavy rain warning across Mauritius main island; locally heavy showers and thunderstorms are forecast across southern and western parts of the island and over the central plateau. The heavy rain warning advises people to remain in a safe place, avoid flood-risk areas, and travel with caution due to reduced visibility. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre (NDRRMC) has also issued a warning advising motorists to be vigilant and to avoid parking cars in areas at risk of flooding.

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 yellow heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across the territory through at least the end of Jan. 29. 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 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.

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.