Cyclone Dikeledi has brought severe weather to Madagascar and Mayotte, resulting in fatalities, displacement, and infrastructure damage. The storm follows Cyclone Chido, which caused significant destruction in Mayotte and Mozambique. Authorities report that more heavy rainfall and strong winds are anticipated as the cyclone progresses.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi caused heavy rainfall and flooding in Madagascar over the weekend, resulting in at least three fatalities. The storm also impacted the French territory of Mayotte, the Comoros, and Mozambique, following the devastation of Cyclone Chido experienced by Mayotte less than a month ago. Dikeledi formed in the Southern Indian Ocean and intensified as it made landfall in northern Madagascar on January 11.
The European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO Flash) reported that over 15,000 individuals have been displaced in northern Madagascar, with approximately 20,000 residents in Mayotte also requiring evacuation. While Dikeledi weakened before reaching Mayotte, the region faced severe winds, flash floods, and landslides on January 12, leading to significant infrastructure damage. The village of Mbouini experienced flooding due to the rains brought by Dikeledi, despite previously surviving Cyclone Chido.
Residents of Mbouini expressed their trauma from the storms. Massa, a local resident, stated, “We’re only in the middle of the rainy season, so we don’t know what’s going to happen between now and February or March.” Manuel Valls, the French overseas territories minister, noted the violent impact of Cyclone Dikeledi on Mayotte. Fortunately, there have been no reported casualties within the archipelago.
Francois-Xavier Bieuville, the prefect of Mayotte, outlined the territory’s fragility in the face of severe weather, indicating, “We still have extremely strong winds and rainfall that is just as strong.” The ECHO Flash report anticipates that Dikeledi may intensify as it progresses southward through the Mozambique Channel from January 14 to 15. Regions including Madagascar, Mayotte, Comoros, and Mozambique should prepare for heavy rain, strong winds, and storm surges in the coming days.
Cyclone Chido had previously devastated Mayotte, resulting in at least 36 deaths and significant destruction. Many residents live in shantytowns constructed from inadequate materials, heightening their vulnerability. Overall, more than 120 fatalities were reported in Mozambique due to Cyclone Chido’s impact. A recent update from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs acknowledged ongoing response efforts in Madagascar, which have included emergency provisions and cash assistance to affected households.
In conclusion, the ongoing threat from Cyclone Dikeledi exacerbates the challenges faced by the already vulnerable communities in Mayotte, Madagascar, and surrounding areas. Residents are left reeling from the impacts of previous storms, with many dislocated and awaiting further humanitarian assistance as authorities brace for the cyclone’s expected escalation. The need for continued support and recovery efforts remains critical in the region as these natural disasters unfold.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
