French island of Réunion on highest alert as tropical cyclone threatens direct hit

A few hours earlier, the Prefect of Patrice Latron Island had announced the entry into force of the cyclonic violet alert, due to wind gusts that could "over 200 km/h".

Tropical Cyclone Garance: French island of Réunion on highest alert as storm threatens direct hit

Réunion island issued its highest level of threat warning as the French Indian Ocean territory braced for a direct hit by a cyclone packing gusts likely to exceed 200 kilometers per hour (124 miles per hour).

With winds above 200 km/h, all the inhabitants of the island, even the rescue, must respect strict containment.

Reunion issues highest threat warning as cyclone approaches, authorities say

NAIROBI - Authorities in the French overseas territory of Reunion on Friday morning issued a \"purple alert\", the highest level of threat warning, as a cyclone with gusts exceeding 200 kph (124 mph) approached the Indian Ocean island.

The island is placed on a violet alert due to the imminent arrival of Cyclone Garance. This implies the strict confinement of the entire population, even relief and law enforcement.