21 Nov 2024 | 08:56 AM UTC
Indian Ocean: Tropical Depression Bheki tracking southwestward to the south of Mauritius Nov. 21 /update 5
TD Bheki tracking southwestward in the Indian Ocean to the south of Mauritius Nov. 21. Close approach to Reunion in the coming hours.
Tropical Depression Bheki is tracking southwestward in the western Indian Ocean to the south of Mauritius Nov. 21. As of 13:00 MUT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 228 km (142 miles) east-southeast of Saint-Denis, Reunion.
Forecast models indicate the system will continue to weaken into a zone of disturbed weather as it tracks southwestward and passes south of Reunion during the afternoon and early evening Nov. 21, before dissipating as it moves away from the Greater Mascarene Islands. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming hours and days.
As of Nov. 21, the Mauritius Meteorological Service has rescinded all cyclone warnings for Rodrigues Island and Mauritius Island. Authorities have issued strong wind and heavy rain watches for Mauritius Island and a swell warning for both Mauritius and Rodrigues islands through 16:00 Nov. 21. Moderate to locally heavy showers with the risk of thunderstorms and winds gusting up to around 100 kph (62 mph) may continue over Mauritius Island during the coming hours. as well as waves of around 4-6 meters (13-20 feet) in the coastal waters of Mauritius and Rodrigues islands. Meteo France La Reunion has issued yellow strong wind warnings across eastern and western Reunion and yellow rough sea warnings for eastern and southeastern coastal areas. Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the storm progresses.
No casualties and only minor damage have been reported in Mauritius and Rodrigues islands as of Nov. 21. Air Mauritius (MK) canceled flights between Mauritius and Rodrigues Nov. 19-20; however, flights between the two islands are resuming Nov. 21. Only minor impacts are expected in Reunion due to Bheki weakening as it passes south of the island.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible. The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast adverse weather conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surges. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
