Mauritius cyclone season is on! Your checklist before, during and after the storm

In our part of the Indian Ocean, the cyclone season runs from December to May, peaking between January and March. As the cyclone season approaches in Mauritius, it's essential to be properly prepared to minimize damage. Here's our advice before, during and after the storm.

Cyclones: what are they?

A "cyclone" in the Indian Ocean, a "hurricane" in the Atlantic and North Pacific, a "typhoon" in the Pacific Northwest... While the names given to these storms vary depending on where on the globe they occur, they all relate to the same extreme meteorological phenomenon: a large-scale, swirling atmospheric disturbance caused by a significant drop in atmospheric pressure.Cyclones bring heavy rain and winds in excess of 118 km/h. Some cyclones produce mostly rain, while others will bring little rain but strong winds. Their consequences are varied, but can always be disastrous.

Cyclones in Mauritius

In Mauritius, the cyclonic risk is categorized with warning classes ranging from 1 to 4.

• Class I: Wind gusts exceeding 120 km/h are expected in Mauritius within the next 36 hours. Take basic precautions and follow meteorological bulletins.
• Class II: Wind gusts exceeding 120 km/h are expected in Mauritius within the next 12 hours, either during the day or the upcoming night. Schools are closed.
• Class III: Wind gusts exceeding 120 km/h are expected in Mauritius within the next 6 hours, either during the day or the upcoming night. Economic activities come to a halt. The population is advised to stay indoors and maintain basic precautions.
• Class IV: Wind gusts exceeding 120 km/h are observed on the island and are expected to persist. Confinement measures remain in place.
• Safety Bulletin: Published to lift either a Class III or Class IV cyclone alert, as applicable, and to inform the public of severe weather conditions associated with the cyclone and other risks, depending on the nature and extent of damages incurred during the cyclone's passage.

Anticipate as the cyclone season begins

To be well-prepared for a cyclone, it is best to plan ahead. December marks the beginning of the cyclone season and is a good time to look at a few things you can do to prevent potential damage.‍

1. Prepare your home:

Check the condition of the roof, windows, and other exterior openings. Identify potential water infiltration areas that need repair.

Clear your yard of any objects that could fly away or cause damage: sheet metal, dead branches... Also consider pruning any trees whose branches could fall on your house, your car, or power lines.

Ensure you inspect the condition of pipes and gutters to prevent any overflow.

‍2. Stock up:

Waiting until the last moment to put together your ‘survival kit’ can lead to unpleasant surprises. Supermarkets are usually crowded as a cyclone approaches, and essential supplies may run low.

Therefore, plan ahead for cyclone essentials: drinking water, non-perishable food items, medicines, flashlights, candles, matches, lighters, batteries, and a radio. Also, consider having a spare gas bottle if you heat your water and cook with gas, or a stove if your home is equipped with electric hotplates.‍

3. Anticipate power outages:

Cyclones often result in power outages lasting from a few hours to several days.

Investing in a generator or a photovoltaic system coupled to batteries will help you navigate cyclones more serenely in Mauritius.

4. Get insurance:

Nature remains unpredictable, and despite all precautions, certain events like tree falls, sudden rises in water, or debris carried by the wind could lead to significant financial consequences.

Consider subscribing to and reviewing the coverage of your insurance policies, especially your home insurance whether you're a homeowner or a tenant. Car and boat insurance will also protect your possessions in the event of damage caused by the weather.

As a cyclone approaches, enjoy the calm before the storm

• Prepare your emergency kit by gathering your important documents and valuables in a waterproof container.
• Charge computers, phones, and external batteries.
• Check perishable items in your fridge and freezer to limit thawing in case of a power outage.
• Ensure your water tank is full if your residence is equipped with one.
• Secure your boat.
• Pick almost-ripe fruits in your garden to prevent them from falling off during the cyclone.

During the cyclone, stay safe

• Stay at home: Keep away from windows. Stay in a central room of the house, preferably without windows, and avoid flood-prone areas. Keep your pets indoors.

• Stay informed: Keep battery life on your smartphone to follow meteorological reports or use your radio to stay updated on the latest Mauritian weather bulletins.

After the Cyclone, assess the situation

• The return of water does not mean it is safe to drink. Boil it if you must use it in the days following a cyclone.
• Turn over all stagnant water containers to prevent the proliferation of pests.
• Learn from the experience by reviewing your preparation and response to the cyclone. Identify areas for improvement to be better prepared for future extreme weather events.

Living in Mauritius offers a unique experience, but it is crucial to remain vigilant and prepared for cyclones. By following this checklist, you increase your chances of navigating this challenge safely and quickly returning to the tranquility of island life. Stay safe and prepared, even when the elements unleash their fury.