Mauritius: Weather officials issue Class III cyclone warning ahead of Tropical Storm Calvinia December 30 /update 1

Event

At 09:00 (local time) on Monday, December 30, the Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) issued a Class III cyclone warning for Tropical Storm Calvinia. While the MMS announced that Calvinia has remained almost stationary in the last few hours, it continues to intensify bringing heavy rain and strong winds to Mauritius that are affecting flight operations. Air Mauritius  confirmed at 09:00 on Monday that authorities at the main island's Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) have suspended ATR72 operations to Rodrigues' Plaine Corail Airport (RRG) until further notice. The airline announced several domestic and international flight disruptions on Sunday, December 29, due to Calvinia. While most affected flights were delayed or rescheduled, further flight disruptions including cancelations are anticipated in the coming hours and day

As of 09:00 on Monday, Calvinia is located at approximately 20.7°S 58.5°E (map here) and is quasi-stationary. The MMS forecasts intermittent moderate to heavy rains, thunderstorms, and average winds between 30-40 kph (19-25 mph) to begin affecting Mauritius by early afternoon on Monday. 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.