Cyclone Dikeledi Moves Away from Mayotte, Causes Flooding Fatalities in Madagascar

Cyclone Dikeledi has moved away from Mayotte but left three dead in Madagascar due to flash flooding. The storm, which hit Madagascar on Saturday, affected over 900 individuals and prompted a red alert in Mayotte until Monday evening. Locals worry about the storm’s impact, recalling the devastation from Cyclone Chido. More than 4,000 officials have been mobilized to assist in recovery and safety efforts.

Cyclone Dikeledi has moved away from Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, but the area remains on red alert until Monday evening due to potential weather impacts. The cyclone caused significant flash flooding in nearby Madagascar, resulting in the tragic loss of three lives and affecting over 900 individuals, particularly in the Antsiranana province. Dikeledi initially struck Madagascar as a cyclone on Saturday before being downgraded to a severe tropical storm. As of Sunday morning, it passed approximately 100 kilometers south of Mayotte without causing severe damage. However, concerns about the cyclone’s aftermath persist in Mayotte, following recent devastation from Cyclone Chido that killed 39 people in December. Local authorities in Mayotte mobilized over 4,000 personnel to manage the situation and prevent unrest during the ongoing weather alert. Moreover, accommodation centers were erected to provide shelter for approximately 14,500 displaced persons, indicating the severity of the situation. Forecasts suggest that Dikeledi could regain its strength, potentially reaching intense cyclone status as it travels southeast towards Mozambique.

Cyclones pose significant risks to regions like Mayotte and Madagascar, which are vulnerable due to their geographic location in the Indian Ocean. In recent months, severe storms such as Cyclone Chido have devastated these areas, leading to increased apprehension regarding the implications of subsequent storms like Dikeledi. The associated environmental impacts, inclusive of flooding and infrastructure damage, are compounded for communities already facing challenges such as food and water shortages.

In summary, while Cyclone Dikeledi has moved away from Mayotte, the aftermath reveals ongoing concerns regarding public safety and recovery efforts in both Mayotte and Madagascar. The loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure from the cyclone underscore the necessity for vigilant preparedness and response measures in cyclone-prone regions. The mobilization of resources in Mayotte reflects the urgent need for community support as they navigate the challenges presented by severe weather events.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr