Tropical Storm Dikeledi moved away from Mayotte after causing severe flooding in Madagascar, resulting in three deaths. The storm, initially a cyclone, weakened but remains a concern as it approaches the coast of Mozambique. Local authorities in Mayotte prepared for the storm, reflecting ongoing issues related to disaster readiness in the region.
A tropical storm named Dikeledi has moved away from Mayotte, following its impact on Madagascar, where it resulted in the deaths of three individuals due to heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding. Initially classified as a cyclone, the storm weakened on Sunday but continued to pose a threat as it relocated approximately 160 kilometers south of Mayotte, as reported by Meteo-France. Mayotte had experienced heightened conditions that included severe weather alerts prior to the storm’s passage, with local authorities issuing a red alert and mobilizing emergency services. The storm notably passed 100 kilometers south of Mayotte early Sunday morning, after initially hitting Madagascar’s northern coastline the previous evening causing significant concern, especially among residents still reeling from a devastating cyclone in December that claimed 39 lives and injured over 5,600.
In the aftermath of Dikeledi, which affected several areas in Madagascar, the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) reported that more than 900 people endured adverse effects from the torrential rains. Residents of Mayotte expressed apprehension regarding the potential for similar destruction as witnessed during the earlier cyclone. The situation worsened in certain regions, such as Mbouini, where floods severely impacted communities that had previously survived the prior storm.
Meteo-France highlighted that Dikeledi may intensify once more into a cyclone as it shifts direction, predicted to reach Mozambique’s coast. In the meantime, local authorities have established eighty accommodation centers equipped to handle approximately 14,500 individuals displaced due to flooding, and over 4,000 personnel, including police and military, have been activated to assist with the crisis response. Despite warnings, some residents took to the streets, highlighting the social challenges presented by extreme weather events and community resilience amid disasters.
Overall, while the storm has moved away from Mayotte, the impacts of Dikeledi continue to resonate within Madagascar and the surrounding archipelago, marking another instance of vulnerability to natural disasters in this region of the Indian Ocean.
The article discusses the trajectory and impact of Tropical Storm Dikeledi, which, having transitioned from a cyclone, impacted Madagascar significantly before moving away from Mayotte. The storm prompted emergency alerts across the affected regions, given a recent history of devastating cyclones that have led to loss of life and widespread damage. The storm’s effects highlight not only the climatic challenges faced by these communities but also the ongoing risk of disaster resilience and emergency preparedness in island territories.
In summary, the movement of Storm Dikeledi away from Mayotte has instigated a review of the recent severe weather impacts on Madagascar where fatalities and significant damages occurred. Emergency responses have been implemented in both regions as the storm approaches Mozambique, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and disaster preparedness in the face of recurrent natural hazards. The local communities exhibit a blend of concern and resilience, navigating the challenges presented by extreme weather events, particularly in regions already affected by prior disasters.
Original Source: www.france24.com
