Mauritius prepares for Cyclone Berguitta forecast to bring high winds and flooding

Warning ahead of tropical storm also issued for island of La Reunion

An aerial image of the cyclone heading towards Mauritius NASA Goddard MODIS Rapid Response Team

The island of Mauritius is preparing for high winds and rain brought by a tropical cyclone making its way across the Indian Ocean.

Cyclone Berguitta is set to pass close to the popular tourist destination as well as La Reunion and could hit the islands directly.

The World Meteorological Organisation said Berguitta, a category three cyclone, has shown signs of weakening, but forecasters warn it is still dangerous.

Some strengthening is possible as the cyclone approaches Mauritius,” said AccuWeather meteorologist Adam Douty.

Mauritius Meteorological Services said a cyclone warning class II was in force, adding that there were wind gusts of around 90 miles per hour near the centre of the storm.

It said the cyclone was around 210 miles northeast of Mauritius before dawn on Wednesday.

“On this trajectory, tropical cyclone Berguitta is dangerously approaching Mauritius and represents a direct threat to the island,” the meteorological service said in a statement.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and Port Louis Harbour have both closed.

The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office warned the cyclone is forecast to bring “hazardous sea and weather conditions” to the island.

You should monitor the progress of approaching storms and follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders,” the FCO said.

Cyclone Hollanda, which struck Mauritius in February 1994, was the worst cyclone on the island in nearly two decades, killing two people and destroying around 450 homes.