Mayotte Struck by Tropical Storm Dikeledi Amid Recovery from Deadly Cyclone

Mayotte has been hit by Tropical Storm Dikeledi just weeks after Cyclone Chido caused significant devastation. A red alert remains in effect due to the risk of flooding and landslides, prompting authorities to mobilize emergency services and provide shelter for residents. Many areas are severely impacted, including Mbouini, which has almost been completely flooded. Civic and governmental tensions continue regarding disaster preparedness and response.

Mayotte has recently been impacted by a tropical storm named Dikeledi, just weeks after enduring the catastrophic effects of Cyclone Chido, which resulted in at least 39 fatalities and left over 200 individuals unaccounted for. The islands, located between Madagascar and Mozambique, are currently under a red alert due to the imminent risks of flooding and landslides. Authorities have urged residents to seek shelter and remain indoors as the storm brings severe weather conditions. Although the storm’s center was situated approximately 100 km south of Mayotte, heavy rain and strong winds were still felt across the region.

Tropical Storm Dikeledi has already caused significant flooding, particularly in the southern village of Mbouini, which was one of the areas left relatively unharmed during the earlier cyclone. In response to this new crisis, cyclone shelters have been established in schools and community centers, and military personnel have been deployed to assist with clearing blocked roads caused by fallen trees. Mayotte’s inhabitants have expressed their grievances towards the French government regarding their handling of the disaster response and their perceived neglect of the territory’s welfare, a sentiment that intensified following Cyclone Chido’s devastation. The French government, realizing the ongoing vulnerabilities of the islands, has mobilized emergency services to mitigate the impacts of Dikeledi.

During a recent visit to Mayotte, French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou highlighted that the number of casualties from Cyclone Chido may reach several hundred, compounded by challenges in accounting for undocumented migrants among the affected populations. The impact of these natural disasters indicates the urgent need for support and resources to facilitate recovery and build resilience against future threats.

Mayotte is an archipelago situated in the Indian Ocean, between Madagascar and Mozambique, and is the poorest territory in the European Union. The region has experienced significant challenges associated with natural disasters, most recently Cyclone Chido, which occurred on December 14, 2024. The cyclone caused considerable damage and loss of life, leading to ongoing recovery efforts. Following this cyclone, the territory was struck by Tropical Storm Dikeledi, exacerbating the already delicate situation for the residents, many of whom live in shantytowns that provide limited protection against such storms.

In summary, Mayotte faces yet another severe climate-induced challenge as Tropical Storm Dikeledi strikes shortly after Cyclone Chido’s devastation. With the region under red alert and residents advised to seek shelter, the impact of this new storm is a critical concern for local authorities and the international community. The recent disasters highlight the vulnerabilities of Mayotte, emboldening calls for improved emergency response and support from the French government, as well as a need for better infrastructure to withstand future storms.

Original Source: news.sky.com