Dikeledi, a tropical storm transitioning from a cyclone, has caused severe flooding in Madagascar, resulting in three fatalities and over 900 affected individuals. Mayotte, currently on red alert, has experienced significant rainfall and strong winds. Response efforts are in place, and concerns are heightened due to recent cyclones impacting the region.
A tropical storm, initially classified as a cyclone, moved away from Mayotte on Sunday after unleashing torrential rainfall and causing flash floods that resulted in the deaths of three individuals in northern Madagascar. The storm was known as Dikeledi and made landfall on Madagascar’s northern coast on Saturday evening before being downgraded. According to Meteo-France, Dikeledi was located approximately 160 kilometers south of Mayotte at 3:36 PM local time.
As it departed, Dikeledi passed about 100 kilometers south of Mayotte on Sunday morning, prompting Meteo-France to comment, “It is now moving away from the island.” Earlier, Mayotte had been placed on red alert in anticipation of its possible impact. This storm followed close behind a recent devastating cyclone that struck the region in December, leaving significant destruction in its wake and resulting in at least 39 fatalities and over 5,600 injuries.
Dikeledi’s most severe effects were reported in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province, where the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) confirmed three fatalities due to the extreme rain, impacting more than 900 residents. Mayotte experienced intensified rainfall and winds on Sunday, with gusts potentially reaching 80-90 kilometers per hour in some areas.
Concern loomed large over Mayotte’s inhabitants, particularly in light of the destruction from December’s cyclone. Local resident Ali Ahmed expressed worry about the new storm’s impact. The situation on the island led to travel bans for residents, except for authorized personnel, as red alert conditions were implemented. Despite the restrictions, some locals ventured outside to make repairs to their properties.
The French government mobilized over 4,000 personnel, including police and military, with 80 accommodation centers established to shelter approximately 14,500 people. Meteo-France indicated that Dikeledi is expected to intensify and could be reclassified as a cyclone again by Monday, potentially impacting regions as far as Mozambique, where heavy rain is anticipated during the day.
In summary, the tropical storm Dikeledi has resulted in significant human and infrastructural losses, particularly in Madagascar, while Mayotte prepares for continued weather challenges as the storm diminishes but remains a cause for concern in the region.
The article discusses the recent tropical storm Dikeledi that impacted Mayotte and Madagascar. It highlights the storm’s transition from a cyclone to a tropical storm and outlines its effects, including casualties and infrastructure damage. This storm follows another devastating cyclone in December, illustrating the vulnerability of these islands to severe weather events. The article also notes the preparedness and response efforts by the French government in the aftermath of the storm’s impact on the region.
In conclusion, the recent storm Dikeledi has inflicted casualties and considerable damage in northern Madagascar, with Mayotte bracing for further weather disruptions. Despite being downgraded, the storm has raised concerns among residents who recently faced devastation from a previous cyclone. Government mobilization and community efforts are underway to mitigate the impacts and safeguard vulnerable populations as Dikeledi is expected to intensify once more.
Original Source: www.cbs19news.com
