Mayotte is preparing for cyclone Dikeledi, which is expected to pass 75 kilometers south of the archipelago, escalating alerts to red due to severe weather risks. This comes shortly after cyclone Chido caused significant destruction, displacing thousands and resulting in extensive injuries. Authorities are mobilizing aid and reopening emergency shelters as the population braces for potential flooding and mudslides.
The French department of Mayotte is set to go on high cyclone alert as cyclone Dikeledi approaches, expected to pass a mere 75 kilometers south of the archipelago this Sunday. The alert level will escalate from orange to red due to worsening weather conditions. This announcement follows an emergency cabinet meeting and stems from concerns over strong winds and potential coastal flooding stemming from Dikeledi, which is projected to impact the region after crossing Madagascar.
Recent assessments from the national weather bureau, Météo France, indicate that the island may experience average wind speeds of 50 to 60 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching up to 120 kilometers per hour. This new storm alert arrives only weeks after cyclone Chido caused substantial destruction across Mayotte, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and extensive property damage, leaving many residents homeless.
Following cyclone Chido, approximately 5,000 individuals were reported injured and thousands more were displaced, relying on temporary shelters and community support for sustenance. Local authorities are reopening emergency accommodation setups, such as schools and gymnasiums. Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville highlighted the importance of preparedness against potential mudslides given the anticipated rainfall from Dikeledi, urging residents to stockpile food and water.
With a population of over 320,000, the region is also home to an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented residents who reside in affected areas. The local police have mobilized essential services to support those in need, particularly in the shantytowns of the capital Mamoudzou where vulnerabilities are heightened.
It is paramount for residents to seek shelter and take precautionary measures as cyclone Dikeledi is set to impact the region soon, especially given the recent devastating effects of cyclone Chido.
Mayotte is a small archipelago located in the Indian Ocean that has recently experienced devastating weather events. Cyclone Chido, which struck approximately one month ago, was reported to be the most destructive storm in nearly a century, resulting in significant loss of life and property. As the region prepares for yet another cyclone, Dikeledi, authorities are facing the dual challenge of immediate storm preparedness while also recovering from Chido’s aftermath. Measures have been enacted to aid displaced persons, and local officials are diligently working to reopen shelters to accommodate those in need.
In summary, Mayotte is bracing for the impact of cyclone Dikeledi, which poses significant risks to the already affected populace following cyclone Chido. With government alerts heightened to red, efforts are underway to ensure shelter and support for vulnerable residents. The community faces challenges of recovery, compounded by another incoming storm, leading to widespread concerns about safety and resource availability.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
