Mayotte is on red alert due to storm Dikeledi, expected to bring severe weather just weeks after the deadly Cyclone Chido. The storm could regain strength and pose risks of heavy rain and flooding, prompting authorities to warn residents and mobilize emergency services.
Residents of Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, are preparing for another storm, named Dikeledi, expected to bring severe weather and flash floods less than a month after being struck by devastating Cyclone Chido. The French weather service, Meteo-France, has issued a red alert effective from Saturday evening, warning of intense rain and wind gusts potentially reaching 90 kilometers per hour. Dikeledi, which was initially a cyclone upon hitting Madagascar, is anticipated to strengthen and potentially be reclassified as a cyclone by Monday morning.
Authorities in Mayotte, still grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido that caused significant destruction and casualties, have called for heightened vigilance. The prefect of Mayotte emphasized the urgency of the red alert, advising residents to seek shelter and prepare essential supplies, including food and water. Over 4,000 personnel from police and military are on standby to assist, and there are provisions to open shelters for those displaced by the previous cyclone. Local media are actively communicating emergency messages to ensure the safety of the population, which includes a significant number of undocumented residents living in vulnerable conditions.
The article outlines the urgent preparations in Mayotte as the territory braces for the impending storm, Dikeledi. Following the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, which resulted in loss of life and extensive damage, the community is once again threatened by severe weather conditions. The historical context of Cyclone Chido as the most destructive storm in 90 years emphasizes the critical nature of the current situation as residents face new dangers shortly after recovering from past devastation.
In summary, Mayotte is on high alert as residents prepare for storm Dikeledi, following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Chido. With authorities urging extreme caution and mobilizing resources, the community faces the possibility of severe rain and winds that could exacerbate the already challenging recovery efforts. Effective communication and emergency preparedness are essential as the territory confronts these imminent threats.
Original Source: www.france24.com
