Mayotte Faces New Cyclone Threat Following Recent Devastation
Mayotte is set to face cyclone Dikeledi, with a red alert issued as the storm approaches, bringing high winds and risks of flooding. This alert follows cyclone Chido’s devastation a month prior, which resulted in numerous casualties and homelessness. Authorities are mobilizing resources and reopening shelters for displaced residents as they prepare for the impending storm impact.
Mayotte, a French department in the Indian Ocean, is preparing for the arrival of cyclone Dikeledi, prompting the issuance of a high cyclone alert. The Minister of Overseas Territories, Manuel Valls, announced that the current orange alert will escalate to a red alert by Saturday evening due to anticipated severe weather conditions. Dikeledi is expected to pass approximately 75 km south of Mayotte, bringing winds of 50 to 60 km/h, with gusts potentially reaching 120 km/h, exacerbating the situation just a month after cyclone Chido devastated the region.
The impending storm raises concerns over mudslides and coastal flooding, especially along the west and south coasts. Authorities have suspended local ferry services and have ordered the reopening of accommodations that were utilized in the aftermath of cyclone Chido, which resulted in significant loss of life, widespread injuries, and displacement of thousands. The local police are preparing emergency services, particularly in shanty towns near the capital, Mamoudzou, to ensure community safety.
With an official population of 320,000 and an estimated additional 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented residents, Mayotte faces dire challenges ahead. Residents are advised to seek shelter and stock supplies in preparation for the storm, marking a critical time for a community still recovering from the recent cyclone’s impact.
Cyclone Dikeledi’s approach follows the devastation caused by cyclone Chido, which was the most destructive storm in Mayotte’s history over the past nine decades. The island has been grappling with the aftermath, including the deaths of 39 individuals, hundreds of injuries, and the destruction of homes, making it essential for local authorities to mobilize resources for disaster preparedness. The response to Dikeledi comes with heightened alert as Mayotte faces potential recurrent hazards, compelling the local government and communities to take immediate protective actions.
As Mayotte braces for the impact of cyclone Dikeledi, the transition to a red alert underscores the severity of the situation, particularly after the catastrophic consequences of cyclone Chido. With significant risks of mudslides and flooding, local authorities are prioritizing public safety through evacuation measures and resource allocation for the most vulnerable populations. The effective management of this impending storm is crucial for the well-being and recovery of the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
