The Calm Before the Storm: Preparing for Cyclone Bheki

What is a Cyclone?

A cyclone is essentially the same as a hurricane or typhoon—a tropical storm with wind speeds exceeding 119 km/h. The name varies depending on the region. Our protagonist, Cyclone Bheki, formed over the Indian Ocean. Hurricanes occur in the Atlantic and eastern Pacific (e.g., the infamous U.S. hurricanes), while typhoons form in the western Pacific, impacting Asian countries.

Cyclone Season in Mauritius

The cyclone season in Mauritius runs annually from mid-November to mid-May, with the highest risk of tropical storms between late December and March. We optimistically assumed we wouldn’t hear about cyclones until January since travel forums pointed to that month as the most storm-prone.

Surprise!

The first tropical storm of the season—and the second major one to impact Mauritius this year—was announced on November 15, the official start of cyclone season. The meteorological station on Rodrigues Island, 600 km west of us, issued a warning about a developing storm over the Indian Ocean: Cyclone Bheki.

Here’s an interesting tidbit: While I initially assumed Bheki was a feminine name, I discovered today that it’s actually masculine (how ironic!). You can learn more about the name in the last section!

Cyclone Bheki's Development

Over the following days, we anxiously monitored weather reports and satellite images. Unfortunately, Bheki took a page out of the playbook of Typhoon Pepito, which was simultaneously intensifying over the Philippines. In no time, Bheki escalated from a tropical storm to an “intense tropical cyclone,” with wind speeds exceeding 200 km/h—just shy of the highest cyclone category. Initially, both Mauritius and its twin island, Réunion, were outside the "cone of uncertainty," the area at high risk of a cyclone’s direct hit. But Bheki surprised us again, shifting course directly toward our region!

Preparing for Our First Cyclone

Spurred into action by increasingly alarming weather alerts, we decided to make some preparations:

• Charged all essential devices, anticipating potential power outages.
• Stocked up on non-perishable food (fruits, vegetables, bread, and canned goods) in case refrigeration became unavailable.
• Secured a supply of drinking water.
• Checked our first-aid kit to ensure we had all necessary medications in case of illness and limited access to medical care.
• Topped up local SIM cards to ensure we’d have internet access even if Wi-Fi went down.
• Learned how to secure our motorcycle to protect it from strong winds.

Mauritius in the Face of Cyclone Bheki

Despite ominous reports of an approaching tropical cyclone, life on Mauritius continued at its usual relaxed, island pace. The sun shone brightly, the ocean gleamed turquoise, and only a few scattered clouds dotted the blue sky.

“There’s still plenty of time,” locals said with a shrug, sipping their beer. “It’s too far to worry about yet.”

And they weren’t wrong!

By Monday morning, Bheki finally began to slow down. It now seems likely to pass south of Mauritius on Wednesday evening as a tropical storm with winds of “only” 75 km/h. But who knows? This storm may still have a surprise or two in store.

Practical Tips for Cyclone Safety

How to Track Cyclone Bheki (or Any Cyclone in Mauritius)

• Official updates: Mauritius Meteorological Services – metservice.intnet.mu
• Satellite imagery: Zoom Earth – https://zoom.earth/storms/bheki-2025/

Tips for Tourists Preparing for a Cyclone in Mauritius

1. Stay informed: Follow official updates and alerts closely. Weather predictions can change quickly, so staying updated is essential. Warnings are typically issued well in advance.
2. Adapt your plans: Even if you’ve been dreaming about this vacation for months, adjust your plans to the weather. Avoid hiking in the mountains or visiting remote beaches during a storm. Strong winds and rough seas will likely cancel boat trips or catamaran excursions
3. Stock up on food and water: Tropical storms often bring heavy rain and strong winds. It’s best to stay indoors until conditions improve. If you’re not staying at a hotel that provides meals, make sure your fridge is well-stocked.
4. Prepare for power outages: Charge all your devices and keep a flashlight or another light source handy.
5. Secure your vehicle: If you’ve rented a car, scooter, or motorcycle, park it in a sheltered area away from trees (falling coconuts are no joke!).
6. Clear balconies and terraces: Remove outdoor furniture and any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds.
7. Consult your host or hotel: If you’re unsure about the safety of your accommodation, don’t hesitate to ask for advice or assistance.

The Story Behind the Name Bheki

The names for cyclones are pre-determined before each season by a designated committee. The list includes both male and female names, and storms are named sequentially following the alphabet. Bheki is the second tropical storm of the 2024/2025 season, following Ancha.  You can view the full list of names here: WMO Tropical Cyclone Naming. The name Bheki was submitted by Eswatini, a small country in Central Africa, and it means "the one who protects". Let’s hope the name lives up to its meaning!