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Cyclone checklist for Réunion

The official instructions for each cyclone alert level and how to prepare your home, as a checklist.

By the Rentîles editorial team Published on Updated on

The cyclone alert system in Réunion has 5 levels, from pre-alert to the recovery phase. During red and purple alerts, people stay indoors and all traffic is forbidden.

Big wave breaking under a grey sky
Photo: Jeremy Bishop, Unsplash

Alert levels

Download the PDF (206 KB)

Cyclone pre-alert

I keep informed

A system is developing in the area and may threaten Réunion in the following days.

  • Follow the Météo-France forecasts.
  • Avoid long mountain hikes and sea trips of more than 24 hours.
  • Stock up on supplies.
  • Keep away from the shore in heavy swell.
  • Find the nearest shelter.
  • Write down the emergency numbers.

Orange alert

I get ready

Danger for Réunion within 24 hours. Schools and nurseries close, businesses stay open.

  • Follow the news on the radio, on television and on official websites.
  • Bring in anything that could blow away and shelter your animals.
  • Protect doors and windows.
  • Check your supplies.
  • Find your shelter and prepare for a possible evacuation.

Red alert

I stay indoors

The cyclone hits the island, with heavy to very heavy rain or wind. The red alert is announced 3 hours in advance.

  • Use the 3 hours' notice to get home or to a shelter.
  • Do not travel after that. All traffic is strictly forbidden.
  • Keep phone calls to a minimum.
  • Stay indoors until the alert is lifted.
  • Only drive again once the roads are announced as passable.

Purple alert

I stay indoors

A major cyclone, with winds over 200 km/h, threatens all or part of the island. The purple alert is announced 3 hours in advance.

  • Stay indoors and do not go out under any circumstances.
  • Only make phone calls if absolutely necessary.
  • Wait for the alert to be lifted before going out. A red alert phase follows the purple alert so the roads can be checked.

Recovery phase

I follow the instructions

The threat is moving away, but the cyclone has caused damage and dangers remain. Schools stay closed, businesses may reopen.

  • Do not cross flooded fords or overflowing ravines.
  • Do not touch fallen power lines.
  • Let emergency services through.
  • Keep phone lines free.
  • Drink bottled water or treat tap water.
  • Only drive if necessary and if traffic is allowed.

Prepare your home

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Météo-France, cyclone warnings and alerts in Réunion, accessible version (issued on 25 October 2026). See the source Consulted on 26 October 2026.

Emergency numbers

  • 112, European emergency number
  • 15, medical emergencies (Samu)
  • 17, police
  • 18, fire brigade

Staying informed

Follow the bulletins from Météo-France La Réunion and the prefecture’s announcements. Red and purple alerts are announced 3 hours in advance.

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