Mayotte is on red alert as storm Dikeledi approaches, only weeks after Cyclone Chido ravaged the territory, causing deaths and significant damage. Authorities warn of strong winds, heavy rainfall, landslides, and flash floods, urging residents to prepare adequately. The local population remains vulnerable, with a significant portion still recovering from the previous cyclone’s effects.
Residents of Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, are preparing for the imminent arrival of a storm named Dikeledi, following the devastation inflicted by Cyclone Chido just weeks prior. Authorities issued a red alert starting Saturday at 1900 GMT as Dikeledi, which has transitioned from a cyclone to a severe tropical storm after impacting Madagascar, is projected to regain strength as it approaches Mayotte, potentially becoming a cyclone again by Monday morning. The storm is currently noted to be approximately 260 kilometers southeast of Mayotte, moving at 22 kilometers per hour, and could bring strong winds and heavy rains, exacerbating the already precarious conditions in the islands devastated by prior storms.
In December, Cyclone Chido resulted in substantial damage to Mayotte, marking the territory as the poorest department of France and causing loss of life and significant injuries among its population. The cyclone’s aftermath left many residents vulnerable, prompting authorities to issue warnings about the potential dangers posed by Dikeledi, including flash floods and landslides. With many citizens still recovering from the effects of the cyclone, the threat of further storms raises considerable concern for the safety and wellbeing of the communities in Mayotte.
In summary, the residents of Mayotte are bracing for the arrival of Dikeledi, a storm that threatens to follow closely on the heels of the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido. The red alert issued by authorities underlines the seriousness of the situation, as the population prepares for potentially dangerous weather conditions. Immediate precautions, such as seeking shelter and stocking up on essential supplies, are crucial for ensuring the safety of Mayotte’s residents as they face another storm.
Original Source: www.cbs19news.com
