Reunion Island residents are on high alert as Cyclone Belal approaches, prompting authorities to issue the highest warning level for what could potentially be a devastating tropical storm.

The island, located in the Indian Ocean, is under strict lockdown as the violet-level alert mandates residents, including emergency services, to stay indoors for 36 hours, extending until Tuesday morning. With a population of around 870,000, Reunion Island faces the imminent threat of Belal, which is forecasted to make landfall on Sunday night.

French President Emmanuel Macron took to social media to caution residents, urging them to remain indoors and exercise caution. The last major cyclone to hit Reunion occurred in 2014. However, officials are drawing parallels with the historical cyclone Jenny of 1962, emphasizing the need for residents to prioritize safety and follow lockdown protocols. Jules Dafreville, a resident in the capital Saint-Denis, expressed a cautious approach, stating, "We are not going to play heroes; we were told to stay at home."

The island's main airport has suspended flight operations, anticipating the adverse weather conditions. Concerns are mounting as Belal is expected to intensify from a "strong tropical storm" to an "intense tropical cyclone" on Monday, with forecasted winds potentially exceeding 200 km/h on the coast and reaching 250 km/h or more in the highlands. Sebastien Langlade, head of forecasting at Meteo France Reunion, warned of destructive and devastating winds that could cause major damage.

Olivier Blondet, a manager of restaurants and a nightclub in Saint-Denis, took precautions to secure his establishments. He mentioned preparations such as fixing furniture to prevent potential hazards. Homeless individuals in Saint-Denis were relocated to shelters to ensure their safety during the cyclone. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of being prepared for major damage and encouraging residents to adhere to safety guidelines.

This situation has brought back memories of past cyclones, highlighting the vulnerability of Reunion Island to extreme weather events. The island's residents and authorities are closely monitoring the situation, recognizing the potential impact of Cyclone Belal and taking proactive measures to minimize risks and protect lives.