Mayotte Prepares for New Storm Dikeledi Following Cyclone Chido’s Damage

Mayotte is preparing for Storm Dikeledi, following Cyclone Chido’s devastation last month that killed at least 39 people. Under a red weather alert, authorities warn residents of flash floods and strong winds. The local government is mobilizing resources to ensure safety and provide shelter as the community anxiously awaits the storm’s arrival.

In light of the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, the French territory of Mayotte is preparing for another severe storm, named Dikeledi. With the cyclone having struck less than a month prior and resulted in substantial loss of life and property, Mayotte is currently under a red alert as authorities warn residents of strong winds and potential flash floods. The storm, originally categorized as a cyclone after impacting Madagascar, has since weakened but is expected to regain strength as it approaches the archipelago.

The French weather service, Meteo-France, has alerted the public of significant rainfall, which may lead to flash floods, landslides, and wind gusts reaching up to 90 kilometers per hour. Residents have been urged to prepare and seek shelter, with Manuel Valls, the French overseas territories minister, assuring that safety measures are being implemented effectively. Meanwhile, local officials are mobilizing over 4,000 personnel, including police and military forces, to ensure the wellbeing of the populace.

On December 16, Cyclone Chido caused catastrophic damage, leading to the deaths of at least 39 individuals and injuries to over 5,600, marking it as the most severe storm in Mayotte in nearly a century. In preparation for the impending storm, public messages have been disseminated in French and regional languages, and accommodations have been arranged for vulnerable residents. With many still not having fully recovered from the previous disaster, the community is anxious and fearful of the potential impact of Dikeledi.

Local residents like Ismahane express concern over the storm’s predicted severity, highlighting the challenges faced by those in informal settlements from the prior cyclone’s destruction. As emergency services and authorities brace for the worst, the collective effort to safeguard the impacted community remains crucial amidst these weather crises.

The Indian Ocean archipelago of Mayotte, a French overseas territory, has been dealing with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which caused severe damage and claimed lives in December. Following this calamity, the region is now faced with the imminent approach of another storm, Dikeledi, raising significant concerns among local authorities and residents alike about potential flooding and destruction. Understanding the prior impact of Cyclone Chido provides vital context for the current state of emergency and the community’s responses.

Mayotte is currently on high alert as it braces for the impending storm Dikeledi, following the recent devastation of Cyclone Chido. Authorities are urging extreme caution, anticipating heavy rainfall and strong winds. With the population still recovering from the previous cyclone’s destruction, the situation remains critical as emergency services mobilize to protect and assist the local community. It is essential for residents to follow safety guidelines in light of the potential dangers posed by the upcoming storm.

Original Source: www.france24.com