24 Jan 2020 | 05:09 PM UTC
Mauritius: Weather officials raise cyclone warning to Class III January 24 /update 1
Weather officials raise cyclone warning to Class III on January 24, as tropical depression intensifies into tropical storm; heavy rain, strong wind, and associated disruptions expected over the coming hours and days
Event
At 19:10 (local time) on Friday, January 24, the Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) issued a Class III cyclone warning for Tropical Storm Diane, which is expected to pass approximately 50 km (31 mi) north of Mauritius on the morning of Saturday, January 25.
As of 19:00 on Friday, the storm is located at approximately 19.2°S 55.7°E and is moving east at 25 kph (15 mph). The MMS forecasts intermittent moderate to heavy rains, thunderstorms, possible flooding, and winds that may exceed 110 kph (68 mph) to begin affecting Mauritius by Friday evening. It also expects rough seas and advises against sea travel.
Associated flooding, landslides, transportation and business disruptions are anticipated, as well as disruptions to power and communication services, in the coming hours and days.
Advice
Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions and flight status before setting out, anticipate transportation and business disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
