Mayotte was struck by Tropical Storm Dikeledi on January 12, 2025, just weeks after Cyclone Chido caused widespread devastation, resulting in numerous casualties and displacements. Authorities have declared a red alert, urging residents to seek shelter and prepare for severe weather as Dikeledi threatens to reignite flooding concerns throughout the region.
On January 12, 2025, the French territory of Mayotte faced the devastation of Tropical Storm Dikeledi, merely weeks after Cyclone Chido inflicted unprecedented damage on the islands. The storm forced residents to remain indoors, urging them to secure food and water due to the impending torrential rains and gale-force winds. In December, Cyclone Chido had tragically claimed at least 39 lives and left hundreds missing while injuring over 5,000 individuals.
Mayotte, an archipelago located in the Indian Ocean near Africa’s east coast, is currently witnessing severe weather patterns that have significantly impacted its population of approximately 320,000, further complicated by an estimated 100,000 undocumented migrants. The region’s vulnerability was underscored when Cyclone Chido, considered the worst in nearly a century, devastated communities, prompting widespread disaster response from officials. As cyclone season lasts from November to April, the recurrence of such storms poses ongoing threats to the islands and their inhabitants.
The recent onslaught of Tropical Storm Dikeledi comes at a time of recovery from Cyclone Chido, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by Mayotte. With a heightened potential for flooding and landslides, authorities continue to prioritize safety measures for the island’s fragile infrastructure and population. The unwavering commitment of emergency personnel and the community’s resilience demonstrate hopes for recovery amid repeated adversities.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca
