Mayotte is facing severe flooding and mudslides due to Storm Dikeledi, following the destruction of Cyclone Chido just a month earlier. The territory is on high alert with authorities reporting significant rainfall and landslides. Approximately 14,500 people have sought refuge in emergency shelters. The storm is moving towards Mozambique, further complicating recovery efforts following Cyclone Chido’s previous devastation.
Mayotte, a territory in the French Indian Ocean, is currently grappling with severe flooding and mudslides following heavy rainfall from the second storm, Dikeledi, which arrived shortly after the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido. This cyclone, which struck a month prior, caused significant destruction and resulted in numerous fatalities across the islands. In response to the impending storm, authorities designated the archipelago as being on the highest state of alert due to concerns regarding intense winds, flash flooding, and potential landslides.
Social media has revealed alarming imagery of downed power lines and substantial flooding. Reports indicate that the southern village of Mbouini, which managed to escape the destruction of Cyclone Chido, is now inundated. Storm Dikeledi made landfall on Madagascar, claiming at least three lives before passing near to Mayotte. Meteorological representatives, such as François-Xavier Bieuville, Prefect of Mayotte, have reported that exceptionally heavy rains have begun to impact the territory significantly, prompting initial flooding and notable mudslides. According to forecasts, heavy rains are anticipated to continue, sustaining the red alert status until at least Monday evening.
As a precaution, approximately 14,500 individuals have sought refuge in emergency shelters established to provide safe haven from the storm’s impact. By Sunday afternoon, the storm was reported to be moving away from Mayotte, with projections indicating it may intensify into a tropical cyclone as it approaches Mozambique, which is also reeling from the repercussions of Cyclone Chido. This past cyclone had resulted in 120 fatalities in Mozambique, underlining the severe impacts of these extreme weather events on both territories.
Mayotte is regarded as one of the poorest regions of France, with many residents residing in informal settlements. Official demographic estimates note approximately 320,000 residents, though it is believed that an additional 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented migrants may inhabit the area. Cyclone Chido, which formed on December 14th, marked a catastrophic moment in Mayotte’s history, generating winds of up to 160 mph (260 km/h) that wreaked havoc on communities largely composed of vulnerable populations living in precarious conditions.
The recent weather events in Mayotte come in the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which caused unprecedented destruction, marking a critical period in the region’s history. This archipelago, which is one of the poorest territories under French jurisdiction, has a complex demographic landscape, compounded by the presence of a significant number of undocumented migrants. The effects of these storms are exacerbated by the inadequate housing infrastructure, leaving many residents vulnerable to natural disasters. The entire region requires continued monitoring and support from humanitarian and governmental organizations to address the compounded effects of severe weather events and socioeconomic challenges.
In conclusion, the ongoing weather crisis in Mayotte highlights the vulnerability of the region’s population to severe tropical storms and the resulting natural disasters. The impact of Storm Dikeledi and the residual challenges from Cyclone Chido necessitate urgent measures to aid affected residents and strengthen disaster preparedness strategies. Authorities must continue to collaborate with both local and international organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of the communities susceptible to such disasters in the future.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
