Mauritius Cyclones - All you should know

Strong storms with high winds and heavy rain, Mauritius cyclones are a result of rising ocean temperatures during the cyclone season, which typically runs from December to March.

When the water temperature on the surface evaporates much faster than the water in the layers below, high cloud towers form and are propelled by the Earth’s rotation, resulting in heavy rainfall.

Mauritius Cyclones: Formation, Lifespan, Hits

How do cyclones form?

Cyclones form when warm ocean water near the equator evaporates, rises, and creates a depression. The Coriolis Effect causes the air to spiral inward, forming a circular pattern known as an eyewall. The cyclone can form and grow if it is over warm water with no wind shear.

Are cyclones the same as storms?

While cyclones and storms have strong winds and significant rainfall, they are different. Cyclones are a type of storm defined by their circular motion and low-pressure centers. Storms, however, can refer to a wider range of meteorological events, such as thunderstorms, blizzards, and hurricanes.

How long do cyclones last in Mauritius?

The duration of a cyclone in Mauritius can vary greatly, although on average they last between 2 and 4 days. This can be shorter or longer depending on the speed and strength of the storm and other environmental conditions.

Cyclones cause tremendous winds, torrential rains, and storm surges. These can damage infrastructure, power outages, and disruption essential services. Coastal locations are particularly vulnerable to flooding and damage during hurricanes.

Cyclone preparation and precautions

Navigating Cyclones in Mauritius: Your FAQs Answered

Mauritius has a well-structured cyclone warning system with four levels reflecting the storm’s severity. The government disseminates information via television, radio, and a free helpline (96), while individuals are advised to protect their homes, stockpile emergency supplies, and find safe shelter.

How do I keep up with cyclone updates?

Stay tuned to local radio and television stations for cyclone warnings and advisories. Use the free helpline (96) for the latest information and assistance in multiple languages.

What steps should I take before a cyclone?

To ensure the safety of your home, trim any tree branches that could damage your home, telephone or electrical lines.
Remove loose materials from your property.
Determine safe areas for your boat.
Prepare an emergency supply kit.

What should I include in my emergency kit?

Portable AM/FM radio with fresh batteries.
Flashlight, lamps, candles, matches, and
Water container
Canned food, can opener, stove with plenty of gas.
Rice, flour, crackers, cheese, and a first-aid kit with essential medicines.
Clothing secured in plastic bags.
Tool kit for emergency repairs (hammer, nails, rope, etc

What steps should I take during the different levels of cyclone warnings?

Class I: Prepare an emergency kit and follow cyclone bulletins.
Class II: Secure windows and doors, store drinking water, and continue to monitor bulletins.
Class III: Complete preparations, install shutters, secure unsecured items, and shelter pets.
Class IV: Stay indoors, seek shelter in the safest area of your home, turn off electrical appliances, and listen to cyclone warnings for updates.

What should I do after a cyclone?

Wait for the all-clear from authorities before leaving your shelter.
Be aware of hazards such as downed power lines, damaged buildings and trees, and flooded areas.
Boil water for drinking. Clean up debris.
Drain standing water to prevent the spread of mosquitoes and infections/

Cyclone Warning System in Mauritius

Class I: Issued not less than 36 hours and not more than 48 hours in advance of the occurrence of gusts of 120 km per hour.
Class II: Issued to allow, as far as practicable, 12 hours of daylight before the occurrence of gusts of 120 km per hour.
Class III: Issued to allow, as far as practicable, 6 hours of daylight before the occurrence of gusts of 120 km/h.
Class IV: Issued when gusts of 75 mph have been observed in some areas and are expected to continue.

Safety Bulletins are issued for the following purposes:

To cancel a Class III or IV Cyclone Warning,
To inform the public of the existence of severe weather conditions associated with the cyclone and other environmental risks, depending on the nature and extent of the cyclone’s destruction.

Mauritius tropical Cyclone

Intense cyclone Carol in 1960 and Gervaise, a fierce cyclone, in 1975.

Intense Cyclone Carol in 1960
Severe Cyclone Gervaise in 1975
Severe Cyclone Claudette in 1979
Severe Cyclone Hollanda in 1994
Very Severe Tropical Cyclone Dina in 2002
Tropical Cyclone Belal in 2024

These cyclones caused severe damage to infrastructure, disrupted the livelihoods of many Mauritians, and even claimed many lives. You can learn more here.