30 Dec 2019 | 01:28 AM UTC
Mauritius: Flight disruptions due to Tropical Storm Calvinia December 30
Weather officials issue level 2 cyclone warnings ahead of Tropical Storm Calvinia on December 30; heavy rain, strong wind, and associated disruptions expected in coming days
Event
Air Mauritius announced several domestic and international flight disruptions on Sunday, December 29, due to Tropical Storm Calvinia. The storm was affecting flight operations to and from the main island's Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) as well as to and from Rodrigues' Plaine Corail Airport (RRG). While most affected flights were delayed or rescheduled, further flight disruptions including cancelations are possible in the coming hours and days.
At 04:10 (local time) on Monday, December 30, the Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) issued a level 2 cyclone warning for Tropical Storm Calvinia after it strengthened overnight. As of 04:00 on Monday, Calvinia is located at approximately 20.7°S 58.8°E (map here) and is moving in a south-southeast direction at about 15 kph (9 mph). The MMS forecasts intermittent moderate to heavy rains, thunderstorms, and average winds between 30-40 kph (19-25 mph). 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 areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions and flight status before setting out, contact your airline for more information, 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.
