Mayotte on Red Alert as Cyclone Dikeledi Approaches Following Recent Devastation

Cyclone Dikeledi is approaching Mayotte, which is on red alert following the devastation from Cyclone Chido last month. Despite expecting Dikeledi to weaken, authorities warn of heavy rains and mudslide risks. Emergency preparations are underway as the cyclone is anticipated to reach Mayotte early Sunday.

Mayotte has been placed on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches the French territory in the Indian Ocean. The cyclone, which recently made landfall in northern Madagascar, is set to impact Mayotte early Sunday morning. Emergency services are preparing for the storm, which is predicted to weaken but still pose threats through high winds and significant rain, with gusts potentially reaching 110 kilometers per hour.

Cyclone Dikeledi comes in the wake of Cyclone Chido, which caused substantial devastation in Mayotte last month, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and over 2,000 injuries. Authorities are particularly concerned as Mayotte has not yet recovered from Chido’s severe impact, which was noted as the worst storm in nearly a century for the islands. Dikeledi’s expected path places it approximately 75 kilometers to the south of Mayotte, but risks remain for flash floods and mudslides.

In summary, Mayotte is bracing for Cyclone Dikeledi under red alert conditions, following the extensive damage suffered from Cyclone Chido. While Dikeledi may not equate in strength to Chido, the potential for heavy rainfall and mudslides still warrants serious caution among the local population. The ongoing cyclone season highlights the growing frequency and intensity of storms in the region, posing significant threats to communities.

Original Source: apnews.com