Mayotte is on high alert due to tropical storm Dikeledi, which has caused flooding and heavy rainfall, though it is moving away. The cyclone has resulted in three fatalities in Madagascar and considerable damage in Mayotte. Emergency services are mobilized as travel restrictions apply, and residents are advised to remain indoors during this period of instability.
The French territory of Mayotte remains under high alert due to the threats posed by the tropical storm Dikeledi, which, while moving away, has already caused heavy rains and flooding, tragically claiming the lives of three individuals in nearby Madagascar. Mayotte, still recovering from a catastrophic cyclone in mid-December, is grappling with the impacts of this storm, which brought intense weather conditions to the region. The territory’s prefect, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, assured that no casualties occurred in Mayotte despite reports of severe flooding that inundated several villages and damaged numerous homes.
Dikeledi made landfall as a cyclone on Madagascar’s northern coast, later weakening into a severe tropical storm as it progressed towards Mozambique. The storm currently poses continued risks to Mayotte, where local emergency services report significant rainfall and damage across the archipelago. With some areas completely flooded, residents are confined to their homes, and travel restrictions remain in place for all non-emergency personnel. Emergency accommodations have been prepared for those affected, with 80 centers set up for approximately 14,500 individuals.
The region of Mayotte, a French overseas territory, has experienced severe weather disturbances in recent months. In mid-December, Cyclone Chido severely impacted the area, leading to major infrastructural damage, and the loss of lives. With a significant portion of its population living in informal settlements, Mayotte is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. The current storm, Dikeledi, highlights the ongoing risks the territory faces as weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable and intense due to climate change.
In conclusion, while Mayotte is now moving beyond the immediate threat posed by storm Dikeledi, the territory remains in a precarious situation following a series of weather-related catastrophes. Given the region’s vulnerability and the absence of reported casualties, authorities continue to monitor the conditions closely and remain prepared for any further developments. It serves as a reminder of the profound effects of tropical weather systems on communities already struggling with the aftermath of earlier disasters.
Original Source: www.france24.com
