Mayotte Faces New Cyclone Threat After Chido’s Impact

Mayotte is under red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches the islands following the devastation from Cyclone Chido. Dikeledi is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall, potentially leading to further damage and mudslides. Emergency services are on heightened alert to protect the population as they cope with the aftermath of the previous cyclone, which caused severe destruction and loss of life.

Mayotte, the French territory located off the coast of Africa, is once again under red alert due to the impending arrival of Cyclone Dikeledi. This alert was declared by the Prefecture of Mayotte on Saturday evening, as the cyclone made landfall in northern Madagascar and charted a path toward the islands. Emergency services and law enforcement officials are mobilizing resources to safeguard the population ahead of the storm’s expected arrival early Sunday morning. Although the cyclone is predicted to downgrade to a strong tropical storm, it is still anticipated to bring severe winds and heavy rainfall to Mayotte, posing risks of further damage and mudslides due to the region’s already vulnerable state.

Mayotte recently faced catastrophic impacts from Cyclone Chido, which occurred just a month prior and left significant destruction and loss of life across the archipelago, known as France’s poorest department. This cyclone resulted in at least 39 confirmed deaths and thousands of injuries and has compounded the vulnerability of the densely populated island, where many residents live in precarious conditions. The cyclone season in this region spans from November to April, frequently resulting in extreme weather events that have broadly disrupted communities.

In summary, Mayotte is preparing for Cyclone Dikeledi as it approaches after enduring severe devastation from Cyclone Chido. The Prefecture and local authorities are actively addressing the situation, mobilizing resources to protect residents while anticipating the harsh weather conditions posed by the new cyclone. The ongoing plight of Mayotte’s population underscores the need for sustained emergency preparedness as the cyclone season continues to present serious risks.

Original Source: apnews.com