Mayotte on High Alert as Cyclone Dikeledi Approaches Amid Recovery from Cyclone Chido

Mayotte faces a new cyclone alert with the approaching Cyclone Dikeledi, which may pass dangerously close to the island. Following the devastation of Cyclone Chido, authorities are on high alert, urging residents to prepare for severe weather, including strong winds and heavy rainfall.

The French territory of Mayotte is currently under heightened cyclone alert as authorities prepare for the anticipated impact of Cyclone Dikeledi. This new alert comes on the heels of Cyclone Chido, which severely impacted the region just a month prior, causing extensive damage and displacing thousands. As the trajectory indicates that Dikeledi may pass near Mayotte, residents are urged to brace for potentially severe weather conditions including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and risks of coastal flooding.

According to Minister of Overseas Territories Manuel Valls, an orange alert is expected to escalate to a red alert by evening as worsening weather conditions approach. The French meteorological agency, Météo France, has warned of strong tropical storm conditions following Dikeledi’s path, particularly affecting the southern parts of Mayotte. Predicted wind speeds range from 50 to 60 km/h, with gusts escalating to as high as 120 km/h, raising significant concerns for community safety.

As authorities act quickly to respond, emergency shelters are being reinstated, recalling facilities used during previous storm emergencies. Local police have also indicated a need for increased resources, particularly in vulnerable areas like shanty towns. The Prefect of Mayotte highlighted substantial risks, especially mudslides due to the anticipated heavy rains associated with Dikeledi, contrasting it with Cyclone Chido, which primarily brought dry weather.

Due to the ongoing complications from the previous cyclone, residents are instructed to prepare adequately by securing essential supplies such as food and water, and to seek shelter in the designated accommodations. The situation is extraordinarily precarious for an area already suffering from the aftermath of extreme weather and displacement.

The Indian Ocean archipelago of Mayotte is facing a resurgence of natural calamity as it gears up for the arrival of Cyclone Dikeledi. Previously, Mayotte endured the devastation of Cyclone Chido, marking the most destructive storm in nearly a century. The current circumstances necessitate vigilance and readiness as authorities coordinate efforts to manage both the impending cyclone and the lingering repercussions of past disasters. With a significant portion of the populace unregistered and living in precarious conditions, the cyclone’s impact could be particularly severe.

In summary, Mayotte is under immediate threat from Cyclone Dikeledi in the aftermath of Cyclone Chido’s destruction. Authorities are taking urgent measures to prepare the community, urging residents to seek shelter and stock supplies ahead of the storm. The ongoing challenges from previous disasters complicate the situation, highlighting the need for resilience and swift action as the island braces for another cycle of severe weather.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr