Mayotte is on red alert as it prepares for Dikeledi, a storm bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds less than a month after Cyclone Chido devastated the territory, resulting in fatalities and injuries. Authorities have mobilized over 4,000 personnel to ensure public safety, replenishing preparedness measures and warning residents to take extreme caution due to potential flash floods and landslides.
In anticipation of a new storm, Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, has been placed on red alert as residents prepare for severe weather conditions following the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido less than a month prior. The storm, named Dikeledi, is projected to approach Mayotte, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds, potentially reclassifying back into a cyclone. Meteorological services have warned of significant rain, wind gusts up to 90 kilometers per hour, and hazardous sea conditions, prompting local authorities to urge residents to seek shelter and prepare essential supplies.
The recent cyclone, Chido, was notably catastrophic, resulting in 39 fatalities and over 5,600 injuries, marking the most destructive event in Mayotte in close to a century. In light of this recent disaster, officials emphasize the importance of extreme vigilance as Dikeledi approaches. Efforts to safeguard the population include mobilizing over 4,000 personnel, and reactivating temporary accommodation facilities for those displaced last month. Cries of caution persist, particularly because the territory is still reeling from the effects of Chido, with many residents expressing concern about the impending storm’s impact.
Having officially a population of approximately 320,000, there are also upwards of 200,000 undocumented individuals residing in fragile conditions. Local resident Ismahane described her apprehension regarding the potential consequences of the new storm, revealing her preparations to withstand the harsh weather. Authorities continue to stress the severity of the situation as they work diligently to prepare for Dikeledi and protect the well-being of their communities, mindful of the lingering effects of Cyclone Chido.
Mayotte is a French overseas department located in the Indian Ocean, known for its isolated geography and vulnerable infrastructure. The region has historically been impacted by severe weather events due to its tropical climate. The recent Cyclone Chido, which struck mid-December, caused considerable destruction and loss of life, underscoring the fragility of the territory’s emergency preparedness. As Mayotte braces for new challenges with the approaching storm Dikeledi, the mixed vulnerability of documented and undocumented populations adds layers of complexity to the humanitarian response.
In conclusion, Mayotte faces a precarious situation as residents prepare for yet another storm following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Chido. Authorities have confidently mobilized resources to implement precautions against potential flooding and landslides. Notably, the emotional and physical toll on the community is evident, highlighting the urgent need for sustained support and effective disaster management strategies as they confront these severe weather conditions. With heightened alertness and community readiness being paramount, the situation remains precarious, requiring close monitoring and response.
Original Source: www.france24.com
