Mayotte on High Alert as Storm Dikeledi Approaches Following Cyclone Devastation

Mayotte is under red alert for the approaching storm Dikeledi, expected to bring strong winds and heavy rains, exacerbating recovery efforts from Cyclone Chido. Authorities urge extreme vigilance due to heightened risks of flash floods and mudslides. Residents are advised to prepare supplies in anticipation of the storm’s impact on the archipelago’s vulnerable communities.

Residents of Mayotte are on high alert for a severe tropical storm named Dikeledi, which is anticipated to bring strong winds and significant rainfall to the region less than a month after Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc. Mayotte was placed under red alert as of 1900 GMT on Saturday due to the storm’s trajectory, expected to pass within 100 kilometers south of the territory. Dikeledi is projected to regain strength, possibly ascending to cyclone status by Monday morning, as warned by Meteo-France.

Authorities have issued advisories for extreme vigilance, especially since Cyclone Chido resulted in considerable loss of life and infrastructure last month. Wind gusts could reach up to 90 kilometers per hour, with the potential for flash floods, landslides, and treacherous sea conditions. Manuel Valls, France’s overseas territories minister, stressed the importance of preparation, stating that nothing is being left to chance in ensuring resident safety.

Personnel, including police and military members, have been mobilized across the archipelago to assist in emergency preparedness efforts. The prefect has requested the reopening of shelters used in December to accommodate those displaced by the cyclone. Manifold messages have been disseminated to inform residents in multiple languages about the impending storm. The population of Mayotte, which is officially around 320,000 but includes an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented individuals, is still recovering from the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, raising concerns about the impact of yet another storm.

Residents are taking precautions; some, like Ismahane, have stocked up on essential supplies and expressed worries over the storm’s consequences. Given the significant rainfall predicted this time, there is heightened anxiety regarding potential mudslides and severe flooding due to the fragile state of many local communities still nursing the wounds from the recent cyclone catastrophe.

The article focuses on the impending threat of the tropical storm Dikeledi approaching Mayotte, a territory of France struggling with recovery from Cyclone Chido, which hit the region in mid-December. Chido resulted in severe damage, particularly impacting slum areas, and resulted in at least 39 fatalities. The current situation highlights the vulnerability of Mayotte’s infrastructure and population, as they brace for new challenges presented by Dikeledi, contributing to the emergency management narrative of the region.

In summary, Mayotte remains on high alert as it faces another storm threat shortly after recovering from the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido. The government has mobilized resources and enacted safety protocols to protect the population as residents prepare for difficult weather conditions. The apprehension felt by the community underscores the ongoing challenges of disaster recovery in a region recently battered by nature’s fury.

Original Source: www.france24.com