Mayotte on High Alert for Incoming Storm After Devastating Cyclone

Residents of Mayotte prepare for Storm Dikeledi as the territory recovers from Cyclone Chido. With red alert warnings in place due to expected heavy rains and strong winds, authorities mobilize resources to protect vulnerable populations. Dikeledi, which has already impacted Madagascar, poses a risk of severe flooding and landslides, necessitating extreme caution among residents.

Residents of Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, are preparing for the arrival of Storm Dikeledi, which is expected to bring dangerous weather conditions to the region already recovering from the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido. As of Saturday evening, Mayotte was placed on red alert, anticipating severe storms with winds up to 90 kilometers per hour and the risk of flash floods. Dikeledi is projected to approach within 100 kilometers of Mayotte after hitting Madagascar as a cyclone, with warnings about significant rainfall and hazardous sea conditions being issued by Meteo-France.

In response to the imminent storm, Mayotte’s government has urged its residents to be extremely vigilant and take precautions. Many have already stocked up on essential supplies in the wake of Cyclone Chido, which caused extensive damage and claimed at least 39 lives last month. Officials have mobilized over 4,000 personnel, including police and military forces, and have instructed local mayors to reopen shelters for those displaced by Chido. The prefect, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, emphasized the risks of flooding and landslides, particularly in vulnerable areas, as Dikeledi approaches.

Mayotte, an archipelago located between Madagascar and Mozambique, has experienced significant weather-related disasters in recent months, culminating in the impact of Cyclone Chido. This cyclone was recorded as the most devastating storm in the region for nearly a century, causing widespread destruction and resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. As the territory is situated in a cyclone-prone area, residents face ongoing challenges related to natural disasters, especially when inclement weather follows shortly on the heels of previous disasters. The threat of Storm Dikeledi, which is now approaching, exemplifies the precarious situation faced by the local population.

As Mayotte braces for Storm Dikeledi, the region is still reeling from the severe impact of Cyclone Chido. With government officials on high alert and severe weather predictions in place, residents have been advised to prioritize safety measures, securing necessary supplies for their families. The situation underscores the challenges faced by Mayotte’s population in recovering from natural disasters, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of ongoing climatic threats.

Original Source: www.france24.com