Mayotte is on red alert for Cyclone Dikeledi, which is set to hit following recent devastation from Cyclone Chido. Authorities are preparing for strong winds and heavy rainfall, emphasizing population safety despite expectations of a weaker storm. The territory is still recovering from last month’s cyclone, which caused significant casualties and destruction.
The French territory of Mayotte has been placed on red alert due to an impending cyclone, Cyclone Dikeledi, which is expected to impact the islands shortly after crossing northern Madagascar. The Prefecture announced the alert at 10 p.m. local time on Saturday. Despite predictions that the cyclone might weaken to a strong tropical storm upon nearing Mayotte, authorities are preparing for strong winds and heavy rainfall, with gusts anticipated to reach up to 110 kilometers per hour (68 mph).
Emergency services are mobilizing in anticipation of the storm, prioritizing the protection of the local populace. This comes shortly after Mayotte experienced its most devastating cyclone in almost a century—Cyclone Chido last month—which resulted in extensive damage and a significant loss of life. Reports state that at least 39 individuals died and over 2,000 were injured due to Chido’s destructive path, which devastated many neighborhoods, particularly affecting lower-income communities.
Although Cyclone Dikeledi is not expected to match the severity of Chido, which had winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), officials emphasize that the threat of mudslides from heavy rains remains significant. The cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean runs from November to April, a period during which the region has witnessed recurring strong storms, one of the deadliest being Cyclone Idai in 2019, which claimed more than 1,500 lives across multiple countries including Madagascar and Mozambique.
Cyclone seasons in the southwestern Indian Ocean pose a recurrent risk to islands such as Mayotte, which sits off the coast of Africa. The territory has recently been grappling with the devastation wrought by Cyclone Chido, marking a significant humanitarian crisis. The impact of these storms is exacerbated by the region’s geography and socioeconomic conditions, with many residents living in precarious circumstances. Continuous monitoring and preparedness efforts are essential for safeguarding lives as cyclones frequently affect this area.
In summary, Mayotte faces another potential catastrophe with Cyclone Dikeledi approaching after suffering the aftermath of Cyclone Chido. While authorities are mobilizing emergency services in anticipation of severe weather conditions, the risks posed by heavy rainfall and mudslides remain high. The frequent threat of cyclones underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness in this vulnerable region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
