Mayotte Plagued by New Storm Following Devastating Cyclone
Mayotte has been struck by Tropical Storm Dikeledi shortly after recovering from Cyclone Chido, which caused significant damage and loss of life. Residents have been advised to seek shelter and prepare for potential flooding and landslides. Emergency personnel are mobilized to address the crisis, as the territory struggles with the aftermath of recent disasters.
On Sunday, the French territory of Mayotte faced another severe challenge as Tropical Storm Dikeledi struck, just weeks after the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido, which had ravaged the islands. Authorities ordered residents to remain indoors or find substantial shelter and urged them to stock up on provisions as heavy rains and strong winds battered the territory again. Having only recently begun recovery efforts from last month’s cyclone, which resulted in the tragic loss of at least 39 lives and left hundreds missing, the new storm added further distress to an already vulnerable population.
Dikeledi, which passed over Madagascar prior to reaching Mayotte, weakened to a tropical storm by the time it arrived but still posed significant risks. French meteorologists anticipated the storm could regain strength, and local authorities issued a red alert for the islands, highlighting the dangers of flooding and landslides.
The prefecture of Mayotte reiterated, “The danger to the population persists,” leading to the reopening of cyclone shelters and the closure of the international airport, which had sustained damage from the previous cyclone. In light of the recent calamities, over 4,000 emergency personnel had been mobilized to assist and ensure safety across the region, particularly in the capital, Mamoudzou, where areas were significantly affected by Cyclone Chido.
The Mayotte islands, located in the Indian Ocean, are a French territory marked by economic challenges and vulnerability to natural disasters. The region is currently experiencing its cyclone season, which has historically seen stronger storms. Last month, Cyclone Chido struck as the most severe cyclone in nearly a century for Mayotte, causing widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis. As local authorities initiate recovery efforts, the incoming Tropical Storm Dikeledi has raised alarms for further complications among a population already impacted by calamity and instability.
In summary, Mayotte faces a critical situation as it endures the repercussions of Cyclone Chido while confronting Tropical Storm Dikeledi. The dual challenges have prompted authorities to take precautionary measures for the safety of residents. The repetitive threats of severe weather expose the region’s precarious circumstances and highlight the urgency for a comprehensive disaster response strategy in such vulnerable territories.
Original Source: www.wral.com
