Mayotte is preparing for Storm Dikeledi, a severe weather event predicted to bring heavy rains and winds following the devastation of Cyclone Chido last month. Authorities have issued a red alert, emphasizing the need for extreme vigilance among residents as they brace for potential flash floods and landslides. Over 4,000 personnel have been mobilized to ensure safety across the region, as many communities continue to recover from the previous storm’s impact.
In the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which left Mayotte devastated just a month prior, the French territory is preparing for another severe storm, Dikeledi. Local authorities have issued a red alert and urged residents to exercise “extreme vigilance,” warning that Dikeledi may intensify into a cyclone. Heavy rains and winds of up to 90 kilometers per hour are anticipated, raising concerns about flash floods and landslides as local officials mobilize thousands of personnel to ensure public safety.
As Dikeledi approaches, predictions indicate it will pass approximately 100 kilometers south of Mayotte, having weakened from its initial strength as it hit Madagascar. The French weather service, Meteo-France, has cautioned that the storm could reclassify as a cyclone by Monday morning, with severe weather set to affect the territory on Sunday. Officials have highlighted the potential for significant rainfall and adverse sea conditions, prompting residents to secure shelter and stock essential supplies.
The region’s recovery from Cyclone Chido, noted as the most destructive storm in ninety years, remains incomplete, with fears exacerbated by the present conditions. The cyclone resulted in substantial loss of life and significant injuries, leading to the mobilization of over 4,000 personnel for emergency response. Accommodation centers, such as schools and gyms used in December, have been reopened to assist vulnerable populations. Residents have expressed anxiety about the impending storm’s impact on their devastated communities, underscoring the ongoing struggle to recover fully from Chido’s destruction.
Local media broadcasts have informed the public in French and regional languages about ensuring safety, while officials are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate risks associated with flash floods and landslides, particularly in precarious areas composed of shantytowns. The proactive measures being undertaken reflect a concerted effort to prioritize community safety ahead of the impending storm.
Mayotte, a French territorial possession in the Indian Ocean, is routinely affected by severe tropical storms and cyclones due to its geographic location. Cyclone Chido recently ravaged the territory, leading to considerable humanitarian and infrastructural challenges. With a substantial portion of the population living in precarious conditions, the government has had to take urgent measures to protect its residents. The predicted approach of a new storm heightens concerns over the region’s recovery, necessitating enhanced preparedness to minimize further disaster impact.
Mayotte’s preparedness for Storm Dikeledi comes in the wake of the catastrophic effects of Cyclone Chido, emphasizing the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by this territory. As authorities implement precautionary measures and the community braces for potential devastation, the storm’s outcome remains an urgent concern. The commitment to safeguard the population is evident as they navigate through recent calamity, reinforcing the importance of community resilience against natural disasters.
Original Source: www.france24.com
