BIG affirms solidarity as Cyclone Garance leaves destruction in Reunion Island

The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) has extended its heartfelt solidarity to the residents of Reunion Island, who are currently grappling with the aftermath of the powerful Cyclone Garance.

The island, a French overseas territory, has been severely impacted by the natural disaster, which has left thousands without essential services and caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

In a statement released by BIG, the group expressed deep concern over the destruction caused by the cyclone, which struck the island recently, flooding streets and leaving many residents in a desperate situation.

"Cyclone Garance has caused severe devastation on Reunion Island, leaving thousands of people without electricity and clean water, destroying homes and infrastructure, and flooding streets. Residents of the island are in a dire situation. There have already been three fatalitie," the message from BIG read.

The group offered its condolences and sympathy to the victims and their families, stating, "In these difficult times, our thoughts are first and foremost with the victims and their loved ones. Courage to all!"

Cyclone Garance has wreaked havoc on Reunion Island, claiming the lives of three people as it swept through the French Indian Ocean territory with winds reaching up to 234 km/h (145 mph). The powerful storm, which made landfall on February 28 morning, has left over 180,000 homes without power and 170,000 residents without running water.

In response to the severe weather conditions, authorities imposed the highest alert level, ordering the entire population—along with emergency services and police—to remain indoors for safety. Heavy rainfall is expected to persist into the evening, heightening concerns about ongoing flooding and further damage.

Prime Minister François Bayrou took to X to issue a warning, stating that the cyclone remains a significant threat to the island, urging residents to remain vigilant as storm conditions continue to unfold.

By Vafa Guliyeva