Mayotte Faces New Cyclone Threat as Recovery from Previous Storm Continues
Mayotte is on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches the islands, just weeks after Cyclone Chido caused widespread devastation. The Prefecture announced the alert in preparation for heavy rainfall and strong winds. Authorities underscore the risks of mudslides and continue to manage the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which led to significant casualties and damage across the territory.
The French territory of Mayotte is once again on high alert due to the approach of Cyclone Dikeledi, which is poised to impact the islands after a devastating hurricane last month. As of Saturday night, the Prefecture of Mayotte confirmed the activation of a red alert at 10 p.m. local time, a precautionary measure in anticipation of the cyclone’s landfall after it previously struck northern Madagascar. Immediate preparations are underway to ensure the safety of the population, according to the French Interior Ministry, although Dikeledi is projected to weaken to a strong tropical storm prior to arrival.
Despite the downgrade, the French meteorological service, Meteo, has warned that significant wind gusts reaching up to 110 kilometers per hour (68 mph) and heavy rainfall are expected over Mayotte. Authorities remain vigilant as the archipelago, home to a population of over 320,000, is still recovering from last month’s Cyclone Chido, the region’s most potent storm in nearly a century. Cyclone Chido resulted in at least 39 fatalities and left thousands injured, prompting concerns that the total death toll could rise significantly. The anticipated impact of Dikeledi comes amidst ongoing recovery efforts and heightened risks of further environmental challenges, including mudslides, exacerbated by the precarious living conditions in affected communities.
Mayotte is a French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mozambique. It is particularly vulnerable to cyclones, especially during the storm season from November to April. The region has experienced several severe cyclones in recent years, including Cyclone Idai in 2019, which caused significant loss of life and extensive damages across the southwestern Indian Ocean. The population of Mayotte faces considerable challenges, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters, due to a combination of high-density living conditions and inadequate infrastructure, especially in informal settlements. Cyclones such as Chido and Dikeledi pose major risks, not only due to their wind strength but also from associated flooding and landslides, particularly affecting the economically disadvantaged areas.
In summary, Mayotte is currently bracing for the effects of Cyclone Dikeledi, following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Chido. Emergency services are on high alert as preparations are made for potential flooding and landslides. The vulnerability of the population, compounded by the recent disaster, highlights the significant challenges faced by the territory in terms of disaster preparedness and recovery. As cyclone season continues, the potential for further storm impacts remains a critical concern for Mayotte’s inhabitants.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
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