Mayotte Residents Prepare for Incoming Storm Dikeledi After Cyclone Devastation

Mayotte’s residents are advised to prepare for Storm Dikeledi, which may bring severe weather conditions, including winds of up to 100 km/h and heavy rain. A cyclone pre-alert has been issued as the storm approaches from Madagascar, marking a critical safety measure following a catastrophic cyclone event in December that resulted in significant casualties and destruction.

Residents of the cyclone-impacted French overseas territory of Mayotte have been urged to prepare for potential shelter in robust structures and stock up on essential food and water supplies this weekend as another tropical storm advances toward the region. The local prefecture has issued a cyclone pre-alert, effective from 0800 GMT on Friday, in anticipation of Storm Dikeledi, which is expected to traverse Madagascar on Saturday prior to moving eastward.

Forecasts indicate that the storm will approach approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) south of Mayotte on Saturday night into Sunday, bringing with it severe winds and substantial rainfall. The prefecture, referring to information from Meteo France, has warned that winds may escalate to an average of 50-60 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching 90-100 kilometers per hour, coupled with risks of coastal marine submersion due to heightened tide levels and adverse sea conditions.

This follows the devastation experienced in December, when the most destructive cyclone in 90 years struck Mayotte, resulting in extensive damage and the loss of at least 39 lives, along with numerous injuries, underscoring the territory’s vulnerability to tropical weather events.

Mayotte, a French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean, frequently faces significant weather events, particularly tropical storms and cyclones. This region is characterized by its geographical location near Madagascar, which often serves as a pathway for storms. The previous devastating cyclone highlighted the area’s susceptibility to natural disasters, prompting authorities to establish alert systems to safeguard residents. The current storm threat serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks faced by Mayotte and the necessary preparedness measures residents must undertake.

In conclusion, the residents of Mayotte are advised to brace themselves for Storm Dikeledi, which is anticipated to bring dangerous winds and heavy rainfall to the region. The cyclone pre-alert signals the importance of preparedness in safeguarding life and property. The aftermath of previous cyclones serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for vigilance among inhabitants of this vulnerable territory.

Original Source: www.usnews.com