Mayotte Faces Severe Flooding and Mudslides Following Storm Dikeledi

Mayotte has been severely impacted by floods and mudslides caused by Storm Dikeledi, following the destruction from Cyclone Chido. The island has been put on a high alert as authorities prepare for more heavy rain, prompting evacuations of over 14,500 residents to emergency shelters. The prefect indicated that adverse weather will likely persist and recovery efforts from previous storms are far from over.

The French territory of Mayotte has recently faced significant challenges due to heavy rainfall, resulting in severe floods and mudslides amid the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which had previously devastated the region. Following the emergence of another storm, Dikeledi, authorities raised the alert level to the highest degree as they anticipated violent winds and flash floods. Reports indicated that many areas, including the village of Mbouini, experienced flooding, with videos showing damaged infrastructure and downed power lines.

On Saturday, Storm Dikeledi made landfall in northern Madagascar, claiming at least three lives. Although it passed 100 kilometers south of Mayotte, the island experienced heavy rain that led to floods and mudslides. François-Xavier Bieuville, the prefect of Mayotte, informed the media that the situation could necessitate continued red alert status due to the anticipated persistent rainfall even after the storm had moved on. In response to the crisis, over 14,500 individuals sought refuge in emergency shelters established to protect them from the severe weather.

The storm is expected to gradually intensify while advancing toward Mozambique’s coast, where conditions are projected to worsen. Mozambique is concurrently recovering from Cyclone Chido, which had catastrophic effects, resulting in the deaths of approximately 120 citizens. Mayotte, an economically disadvantaged French territory with a population of 320,000, is experiencing compounded difficulties, as many residents reside in informal housing. In December, Cyclone Chido had previously wreaked havoc on Mayotte, marking the most intense storm to impact the region in almost a century, initially resulting in devastating casualties.

The recent flooding and mudslides affecting Mayotte are part of a larger pattern of natural disasters in the region. This particular sequence began with Cyclone Chido on December 14, which was reported to be the worst tropical storm in 90 years. With maximum wind speeds reaching 260 km/h, Chido destroyed many homes, particularly in impoverished areas where residents often live in flimsy constructions. The region’s vulnerability to severe weather events is exacerbated by its socioeconomic conditions, with a significant population of undocumented migrants, estimated at 100,000 to 200,000, adding to the existing challenges of public safety and infrastructure stability. Following Cyclone Chido, Mayotte’s residents are now grappling with the consequences of Storm Dikeledi, which continues to pose threats to their safety and wellbeing.

In conclusion, Mayotte continues to endure the repercussions of extreme weather, exacerbated by the recent Storm Dikeledi following Cyclone Chido’s devastation. With emergency measures in place, local authorities are working to address the needs of the displaced populations while facing ongoing challenges from severe rainfall. As the region braces for potential further weather disturbances, the implications for public safety, housing, and overall recovery remain critical areas of concern.

Original Source: www.bbc.com