Mayotte has been placed on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches following the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido last month. The cyclone is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds, prompting emergency services to prepare for potential flooding and mudslides. The region, still recovering from the previous storm’s damage, faces continued risks as cyclone season persists in the Southwestern Indian Ocean.
Mayotte, a French territory located off the coast of Africa, is under red alert due to an impending cyclone called Dikeledi. The alert was issued by the Prefecture of Mayotte as Dikeledi, which has already made landfall in northern Madagascar, is projected to approach the islands. Emergency services are on standby to safeguard residents ahead of the storm’s expected arrival early Sunday morning.
Despite forecasts indicating that Dikeledi will weaken to a tropical storm, it is still anticipated to bring substantial winds and heavy rainfall. The French meteorological service, Meteo, warns that wind gusts could reach speeds of 110 kph (68 mph). The cyclone is expected to pass south of Mayotte, but the risks remain significant for flooding and mudslides due to the expected precipitation.
Mayotte is yet to recover from the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido, which struck last month, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and injuries to over 2,000 individuals. According to officials, Cyclone Chido was the most catastrophic storm to impact the region in nearly a century, flattening neighborhoods and exacerbating existing vulnerabilities within the densely populated archipelago of over 320,000 residents.
The cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean, spanning from November to April, has seen a surge in severe storms in recent years. Authorities remain vigilant as they contend with the potential impact of Cyclone Dikeledi, following the recent destruction wrought by Cyclone Chido that left various communities in distress. This ongoing situation emphasizes the region’s vulnerability to climatic phenomena and the importance of preparedness and response measures.
Mayotte constitutes a densely populated island group with significant vulnerabilities, especially related to natural disasters like cyclones. The islands have historically experienced severe weather patterns, with the cyclone season running from November to April. These events pose critical risks to the population, many of whom reside in informal and precarious settlements. Cyclone Chido’s recent destruction serves as a stark reminder of the region’s fragility and highlights the necessity for ongoing monitoring and emergency preparedness in response to imminent storms.
In summary, Mayotte is currently preparing for Cyclone Dikeledi, following the extensive damage caused by Cyclone Chido just weeks prior. Local authorities are taking necessary precautions to protect the population as weather forecasts predict strong winds and heavy rainfall. The impacts of these cyclones underline the urgent need for effective disaster response strategies in this vulnerable region.
Original Source: apnews.com
