Mayotte is on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches, following Cyclone Chido which caused significant devastation last month. Emergency services are preparing for potential strong winds and rain from Dikeledi, highlighting ongoing concerns for the islands still recovering from the previous storm’s impact.
The French territory of Mayotte has issued a red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches after a devastating storm last month. The Prefecture announced the warning on Saturday evening to prepare for Dikeledi’s arrival, which had previously made landfall in Madagascar. Although the cyclone is expected to weaken to a strong tropical storm, emergency services are on high alert as Dikeledi is forecasted to bring strong winds and heavy rain, with gusts reaching up to 110 kph (68 mph).
Last month, Mayotte experienced Cyclone Chido, which caused significant damage and led to the deaths of at least 39 individuals, with many more injured. Authorities believe the final death toll could potentially rise to several hundred. Mayotte, a densely populated archipelago with over 320,000 residents, faced extensive destruction, particularly in shantytowns that were heavily impacted by Chido. The aftermath of this storm has left the territory vulnerable as it braces for Dikeledi, which may cause additional rain and mudslides, according to Mayotte Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville.
Cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean runs from November to April, during which Mayotte and surrounding regions frequently experience severe weather events. In recent years, several formidable cyclones have impacted the area, including the notable Cyclone Idai in 2019, which resulted in over 1,500 fatalities across multiple countries. The frequency and intensity of such storms have raised concerns for communities vulnerable to natural disasters, particularly in impoverished regions like Mayotte, which struggles with inadequate infrastructure exacerbating the risk of severe damage and loss of life during cyclonic events.
In summary, Mayotte finds itself on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches, a threatening situation compounded by the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido. Emergency personnel are taking necessary precautions to protect the population as rain and strong winds pose risks of further destruction, particularly after the catastrophic impacts experienced just a month prior. This ongoing vulnerability highlights the urgent need for effective disaster preparedness in cyclone-prone regions.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
