Mayotte Remains on High Alert Following Tropical Storm Dikeledi
Mayotte is under high alert as tropical storm Dikeledi moves away after causing flooding and three fatalities in Madagascar. The territory is still recovering from a devastating cyclone in December. Officials are monitoring the situation carefully, implementing emergency measures for the affected residents. Approximately 14,500 people have been accommodated in designated centers due to the danger posed by recent severe weather events.
On Sunday, officials reported that the French territory of Mayotte remains under high alert due to the residual effects of tropical storm Dikeledi, which has recently moved away after passing through the region. While the storm caused significant rainfall and flooding, it did not result in fatalities on Mayotte, although it tragically claimed three lives in Madagascar. The territory is still recovering from a devastating cyclone that occurred in December, raising concerns about its vulnerability.
Manuel Valls, France’s Minister for Overseas Territories, spoke about the “intense tropical storm” that had a severe impact on Mayotte. Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville confirmed that the storm had not caused casualties on the French island. Dikeledi initially made landfall as a cyclone on Madagascar’s northern coast before weakening into a severe tropical storm. Currently, it is moving toward Mozambique, where Cyclone Chido had previously caused extensive destruction. Mayotte was placed on a red alert over the weekend, which will remain in effect until Monday evening.
As the storm passed, reports indicated flooding severely affected four villages in southern Mayotte, with many homes being inundated. Despite the risks, some residents defied caution— venturing outdoors for various reasons, including washing vehicles. Emergency measures are in place, with over 4,000 personnel, including police and military, deployed to assist. The ministry overseeing overseas territories has established 80 accommodation centers for approximately 14,500 displaced residents, indicating a controlled response to the crisis.
In Madagascar, the aftermath of Dikeledi included three confirmed deaths and over 900 people affected in Antsiranana province—the area experiencing the most intense conditions from the storm’s impact. Mayotte, home to about 320,000 residents and an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented individuals, remains on edge as it manages the fallout from this tropical storm and recent cyclones.
Mayotte’s government has stated that residents are prohibited from moving around during the alert period, with exceptions made only for rescue operations. Although the storm’s threat is easing, officials remain vigilant as they prepare for additional forecasts of inclement weather.
In summary, Mayotte faces continuing threats from tropical storm Dikeledi, which has left behind significant flooding and recently claimed lives in Madagascar. The territory’s vulnerability, exacerbated by prior cyclone damage, necessitates ongoing caution among residents and response teams.
The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management reported that “in terms of impact, Antsiranana province in Madagascar has sustained the most intense conditions in recent hours” – National Office for Risk and Disaster Management.
The situation surrounding Mayotte and the tropical storm Dikeledi is particularly concerning due to the territory’s recent experiences with devastation from prior cyclones. Mayotte, known as France’s poorest territory, is characterized by many residents living in precarious conditions, which adds to the risks associated with natural disasters. The territory’s geographical position makes it vulnerable to tropical storms developing in the Indian Ocean. Following the destruction left by Cyclone Chido in December 2022, which resulted in numerous casualties and widespread destruction, Mayotte has been on high alert, prepared for the impact of subsequent storms such as Dikeledi.
In conclusion, Mayotte is currently managing the aftermath of tropical storm Dikeledi while being acutely aware of its vulnerable state after recent cyclonic events. The territory remains proactive in response efforts, with emergency measures in place to support affected residents and prevent further casualties. Vigilance remains essential as the region prepares for ongoing weather developments and potential future threats from tropical storms.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com