Cyclones in Mauritius - Mauritius Attractions

A Comprehensive Guide to Cyclones in Mauritius

Cyclones in Mauritius are intense storms characterised by strong winds and heavy rainfall. They are a result of the warming ocean temperatures during the cyclone season, which typically occurs from December to March.

When the water temperature on the surface evaporates much quicker than the water in underlying layers, high cloud towers build and are put into motion by the rotation of the earth - causing these clouds to bring heavy rainfalls.

Mauritius Cyclones - Formation, Lifespan, Impacts

How are cyclones formed?

Cyclones form over warm ocean waters near the equator when warm water evaporates, rises, and creates low pressure. The Coriolis effect then causes the air to spiral inward, forming a circular pattern known as an eyewall.

As long as the cyclone remains over warm waters with little wind shear, it can strengthen and grow.

Are cyclones and storms the same thing?

While both cyclones and storms involve strong winds and heavy rainfall, they are not the same. Cyclones are a specific type of storm characterised by their circular motion and low-pressure centres. In contrast, storms can encompass a broader range of weather events, including thunderstorms, blizzards, and hurricanes.

How often do cyclones occur in Mauritius?

Cyclones directly hit Mauritius approximately every 5 years, but the island experiences remnants of 3 to 5 storms annually. These storms are most likely to form on the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, where water temperatures remain around 26°C for extended periods.

How long does a cyclone last in Mauritius?

The duration of a cyclone in Mauritius can vary widely, but on average, they typically last around 2 to 4 days. However, this can be shorter or longer depending on the speed of the storm's movement, its intensity, and other environmental factors.

What are the effects of cyclones in Mauritius?

Cyclones bring about high winds, torrential rainfall, and storm surges. These can cause infrastructure damage, power outages, and disruption of essential services. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to flooding and erosion during cyclones.

Preparation & Precautions in the Event of a Cyclone

Navigating Cyclones in Mauritius - Your FAQs Answered

Mauritius has a well-structured cyclone warning system with four classes indicating the severity of the cyclone. The government disseminates information through TV, radio, and a free helpline (96), while citizens are advised to secure their homes, prepare emergency kits, and identify safe shelters.

How can I stay informed about cyclone updates?

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

What precautions should I take before a cyclone?

Ensure your home is secure
Trim tree branches that are likely to cause damage to your house, telephone and electricity lines
Clear loose materials from your property
Identify safe places for your boat
Prepare an emergency kit

What should my emergency kit contain?

Portable AM/FM radio and fresh batteries
Torch, lamps, candles, matches, etc
Water containers
Canned food, can opener, stove with sufficient gas
Rice, flour, biscuits, cheese, etc
First aid kit and essential medicines
Clothes secured in plastic bags
Tool kit for emergency repairs (hammer, nail, rope, etc..)

What actions should I take during different cyclone warning classes?

Class I: Prepare emergency kit and monitor cyclone bulletins
Class II: Secure windows and doors, store drinking water, and continue monitoring bulletins
Class III: Complete preparatory measures, fix shutters, secure loose items, and shelter domestic animals
Class IV: Stay indoors, seek shelter in the safest part of your home, disconnect electrical appliances, and listen to cyclone bulletins for updates

What should I do after a cyclone?

Wait for the all-clear signal from Authorities before leaving your shelter
Beware of hazards such as fallen power lines, damaged buildings and trees, and flooded areas
Boil water for drinking purposes
Clean up debris
Drain out stagnant water to prevent the proliferation of mosquitoes /diseases

The Cyclone Warning System in Mauritius

Class I: Issued not less than 36 hours, nor more than 48 hours, before the occurrence of gusts of 120 kilometres per hour

Class II: Issued so as to allow, as far as practicable, 12 hours of daylight before the occurrence of gusts of 120 kilometres per hour

Class III: Issued so as to allow, as far as practicable, 6 hours of daylight before the occurrence of gusts of 120 kilometres per hour

Class IV: Issued when gusts of 120 kilometres per hour are recorded in some places and are expected to continue

Safety Bulletin is issued for the purpose of :

Lifting the cyclone warning class III or IV, and
Informing the public of the existence of severe weather conditions associated with the cyclone and other environment risks, depending on the nature and extent of the damage caused by the cyclone

Major Tropical Cyclones in Mauritius

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

These cyclones caused significant damage to infrastructure, affected the livelihoods of many Mauritians and even resulted in several deaths. You can find more here.