Tropical Storm Dikeledi Moves Away From Mayotte, Causing Casualties in Madagascar

A tropical storm, Dikeledi, has moved away from Mayotte after causing severe rainfall and flash floods in Madagascar, leading to three fatalities. Originally a cyclone, it has transitioned to a tropical storm as it approaches the southeast. Previously affected by significant cyclonic damage in December 2023, the region remains vigilant amid ongoing threats and recovery efforts, with authorities mobilizing resources to assist nearly 14,500 individuals.

A tropical storm named Dikeledi has shifted away from Mayotte, the French territory in the Indian Ocean, following a period of severe weather that resulted in significant rainfall and flash floods in Madagascar, claiming three lives. According to Meteo-France, Dikeledi transitioned from a cyclone into a severe tropical storm after making landfall on the northern coast of Madagascar on Saturday evening. The storm is currently located approximately 160 kilometers south of Mayotte and is anticipated to resume its path towards the southeast.

In anticipation of Dikeledi’s passage, Mayotte was placed under a red alert, reminding residents of the recent cyclone that caused catastrophic damage in December 2023, resulting in the deaths of at least 39 individuals. This time, the northern province of Antsiranana in Madagascar experienced the most intense effects of the storm. The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management in Madagascar reported that torrential rains affected over 900 residents, highlighting the persistent vulnerability of the region.

In Mayotte, residents expressed anxiety regarding the potential impacts of the storm, particularly in light of previous devastation. Reports indicated damaged infrastructure, notably in the village of Mbouini, which had previously escaped the brunt of Cyclone Chido in December. Despite the red alert, some locals ventured outdoors to address any structural deficiencies on their properties, using the weather to wash their vehicles rather than remaining confined indoors.

Authorities have mobilized over 4,000 personnel, encompassing police and military units, while the French government set up 80 accommodation centers prepared to host approximately 14,500 displaced individuals. The interior ministry characterized the situation in Mayotte as “calm” despite the ongoing weather threats. Forecasts suggest that Dikeledi may intensify and potentially regain cyclone status by early next week, with heavy rainfall also anticipated in the Comoros and in coastal regions of Mozambique.

The recent weather events in Mayotte and Madagascar exemplify the region’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones and severe storms. Dikeledi, having initially struck as a cyclone, raises concerns particularly as it follows a devastating cyclone in December 2023 that inflicted severe losses in terms of human life and infrastructure. Understanding the meteorological patterns and the historical impact of such storms is crucial for the local governments and humanitarian organizations to prepare and respond effectively to similar threats in the future.

In conclusion, the transition of tropical storm Dikeledi illustrates the ongoing challenges faced by Mayotte and Madagascar due to severe weather phenomena. As local authorities implement precautionary measures and mobilize resources to assist affected communities, the long-term recovery from recent cyclones remains a pressing concern. Enhanced preparedness and response strategies are essential to mitigate the risks posed by future storms in this vulnerable region.

Original Source: www.france24.com