Tropical Storm Dikeledi Moves Away from Mayotte After Fatal Impact in Madagascar

Tropical storm Dikeledi has moved away from Mayotte after causing severe rains in Madagascar, resulting in three deaths. The storm, previously a cyclone, brought extensive damage, particularly in Anitsiranana province. Mayotte remains under a red alert, with substantial efforts underway to aid those affected. Dikeledi is expected to intensify again and may reclassify as a cyclone by Monday.

On Sunday, the tropical storm Dikeledi began to move away from Mayotte, following its destructive impact on the northern coast of Madagascar, where it resulted in three fatalities due to torrential rains and subsequent flash floods. Dikeledi initially struck Madagascar as a cyclone on Saturday evening before transitioning into a severe tropical storm. The storm was recorded at a distance of 160 kilometers south of Mayotte according to the latest report from Meteo-France.

As it traversed the region, Dikeledi caused Mayotte to issue a red alert in anticipation of its approach. The storm is notable for arriving less than a month after a devastating cyclone severely affected the territory, leading to significant loss of life and extensive property damage. Following a period of intense weather, areas within northern Madagascar, particularly Antsiranana province, faced the most severe conditions, resulting in casualties and displacements totaling over 900 individuals.

Since Saturday morning, rain and winds have intensified in Mayotte, which is home to approximately 320,000 residents, though estimates suggest an additional 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented inhabitants. The community in Mamoudzou expressed great concern regarding the potential effects of the newly formed storm given the prior devastation experienced in December. Despite the imposed restrictions in response to the red alert, some individuals still ventured outside, taking precautions to protect their properties and belongings.

Approximately 4,000 personnel, including police and military units, have been mobilized to provide support and aid to the region. The Ministry of the Overseas Territories reported the establishment of 80 temporary shelters designed to accommodate approximately 14,500 individuals. Dikeledi is anticipated to strengthen back into a cyclone by Monday, prompting additional weather warnings across the coastal regions of Mozambique and the Comoros.

As the storm progresses, it is expected to intensify further and may transition into an intense tropical cyclone on its trajectory southeastward.

The recent storm activity surrounding Mayotte and Madagascar highlights the increasing threat posed by tropical storms and cyclones in the Indian Ocean region. Mayotte has been particularly vulnerable due to its geographical position and socio-economic challenges. The prior cyclone experienced in December revealed significant weaknesses in infrastructure and disaster management, leading to heightened concern among residents regarding the impacts of subsequent storms. Effective response protocols and community preparedness are paramount to mitigate the effects of future atmospheric disturbances.

In summary, the passage of tropical storm Dikeledi has drawn attention to the ongoing vulnerability of Mayotte and Madagascar to extreme weather events. With previous storms having caused catastrophic damage, the community is now facing anxiety regarding the potential impacts of Dikeledi, particularly as it moves towards reclassification as a cyclone. The mobilization of local resources and adherence to safety measures are critical as the region braces for continued adverse weather conditions.

Original Source: www.france24.com