Intense Cyclone Grant 2,123km Away With No Direct Threat For 3 Days

Weather officials have confirmed that Tropical Cyclone Grant has intensified into an intense tropical cyclone, though it is not expected to pose a direct threat to Mauritius or the Mascarene Islands for at least the next three days.

As of 04:00 this Monday, 29 December, the Vacoas meteorological station located the system at approximately 2,123 km east-north-east of Mauritius. Positioned at latitude 13.5 degrees South and longitude 82.5 degrees East, the cyclone is currently tracking west-south-west at a speed of roughly 20 km/h.

Local Forecast: Unsettled Conditions Ahead

While the cyclone remains at a safe distance, local weather is being shaped by clouds arriving from the south-west. Forecasters warn of an increasingly unstable atmosphere across the island today.

• Morning: Partly cloudy conditions with scattered showers, particularly in the West, South, and across the Central Plateau.
• Afternoon: Showers are expected to become more frequent and moderate in intensity, with a high risk of isolated thunderstorms.
• Visibility: Road users are advised to exercise caution as patches of fog are expected to develop in certain regions.

Temperature and Maritime Outlook

The island will see mercury levels peaking between 25°C and 27°C on the high grounds, while coastal areas will enjoy warmer highs of 29°C to 32°C. Overnight, temperatures are set to dip to between 20°C and 26°C depending on the locality.

Winds remain relatively light, blowing from the North at 10 to 20 km/h. However, the sea remains rough beyond the reefs, with wave heights reaching approximately 2 metres.

Safety Warnings Issued

In light of the predicted thunderstorms, the meteorological station has urged the public to take necessary precautions. Residents are advised to:

• Remain in safe, indoor locations during electrical activity.
• Avoid open spaces and mountainous hikes.
• Refrain from seeking shelter under trees.

Source: Defi Media / Defi Media1