Mayotte Prepares for Cyclone Dikeledi Amid Ongoing Recovery Efforts

Mayotte is preparing for cyclone Dikeledi with a red alert issued as it approaches, adding to the challenges faced from cyclone Chido just weeks earlier. Wind gusts of up to 120 km/h and a risk of flooding are anticipated, along with ongoing humanitarian needs for thousands displaced by previous storms.

The French territorial department of Mayotte is preparing for the impending impact of cyclone Dikeledi, with a transition from an orange alert to a higher red alert as early as Saturday evening. This precautionary measure, articulated by Overseas Territories Minister Manuel Valls on BFM TV, arises following heightened concerns regarding the cyclone’s trajectory, which is predicted to pass just 75 kilometers south of Mayotte. The region is still in recovery mode from cyclone Chido, which struck a month prior, causing significant destruction.

The national meteorological service, Météo France, has indicated that cyclone Dikeledi is expected to traverse Madagascar and subsequently approach Mayotte, potentially classified as a “strong tropical storm” upon arrival. Anticipated wind speeds are forecasted to range from 50 to 60 kilometers per hour throughout the island, with stronger gusts of 100 to 120 kilometers per hour projected in southern areas. Additionally, the risk of coastal flooding has been highlighted, resulting in the suspension of local ferry services.

This updated storm warning comes shortly after the catastrophic aftermath of cyclone Chido, the most severe event to affect Mayotte in 90 years, resulting in 39 fatalities, 124 serious injuries, and over 5,000 individuals harmed. Many residents remain displaced due to the destruction of numerous homes, relying on donated supplies and temporary shelter. Local authorities have been directed to reopen emergency accommodation facilities, which had previously housed approximately 15,000 individuals during the Chido crisis.

Prefect François-Xavier Bieuville emphasized the heightened risk for mudslides due to the expected heavy rainfall linked to cyclone Dikeledi, contrasting it with the much drier conditions experienced during cyclone Chido. Residents have been urged to prepare by securing essential supplies while prioritizing safety by seeking immediate shelter.

Mayotte, a French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean, has experienced two significant cyclones in quick succession, which has posed considerable challenges to its inhabitants. Cyclone Chido caused severe destruction and loss of life just weeks prior to the alert for cyclone Dikeledi. The region, officially home to 320,000 residents, faces a complex humanitarian situation, especially with many undocumented individuals in precarious housing conditions. Emergency responses are critical as authorities work to mitigate further impacts from the impending storm track.

In summary, Mayotte is bracing for the arrival of cyclone Dikeledi, elevating the alert level to red amid fears of severe weather conditions and flooding. This follows the catastrophic consequences of cyclone Chido, highlighting significant levels of displacement and ongoing humanitarian needs. Authorities are mobilizing resources to support affected individuals while promoting public safety amid these challenging circumstances.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr