PORT LOUIS: Mauritius is assessing the aftermath of Tropical Storm Belal, which wreaked havoc on the Indian Ocean island nation, killing at least one person and causing extensive damage. The storm left thousands without power, flooded buildings, and disrupted transportation, leading to a state of emergency.
Tropical Storm Belal prompted Mauritius Meteorological Services (MMS) to raise its alert to the maximum level four earlier on Tuesday. However, in a subsequent update, the MMS lifted the warning, replacing it with a “safety bulletin.” The government had previously ordered inhabitants to stay indoors, but the current advice urges people to “strongly maintain precaution and stay in safe places.”
Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth criticized the MMS in a televised address, announcing the resignation of its director. He confirmed one fatality, citing a motorcyclist who died in a road accident during the storm.
Flood Risk in Mauritius
The National Emergency Operations Command warned of winds reaching 80 kilometers (50 miles) per hour and waves up to seven meters (23 feet), posing a flood risk in low-altitude areas. An evaluation of the situation on the island’s main thoroughfares and critical infrastructure is underway before lifting all restrictions.
Belal had previously battered the French overseas territory of Reunion, causing one fatality. The red alert in Reunion was expected to be lifted on Tuesday.
The international airport in Mauritius was closed on Monday, and several flights scheduled for Tuesday were canceled. Tourism, a key contributor to Mauritius’ economy, has been impacted, with concerns about the accessibility of transportation for tourists.
In his address, Prime Minister Jugnauth expressed sadness and anger at the events, particularly criticizing the MMS for not anticipating the heavy rains. He emphasized that all government decisions were based on information from the weather agency and called for those responsible to assume their responsibilities.
