Mayotte Struck by Tropical Storm Dikeledi Following Cyclone Chido’s Devastation

Mayotte is facing a new tropical storm, Dikeledi, just weeks after Cyclone Chido caused significant destruction and fatalities. A red alert is in place due to concerns about flooding and landslides. Military forces have been deployed to assist in recovery efforts as many remain unaccounted for from the previous cyclone. Residents express ongoing frustrations regarding government neglect in crisis management.

A new tropical storm, named Dikeledi, has impacted Mayotte in the Indian Ocean merely weeks after the catastrophic Cyclone Chido, which resulted in the loss of at least 39 lives and left over 200 individuals unaccounted for. The islands, situated between Madagascar and Mozambique, had begun the arduous recovery process from the December cyclone when the latest storm struck, precipitating concerns of flooding and landslides. A red alert has been issued as authorities urge residents to remain indoors or seek secure shelters due to the severe weather conditions. Even though the storm is centered approximately 100 kilometers south of Mayotte, the area has faced heavy rainfall and powerful winds, leading to further flooding, particularly in the village of Mbouini. Emergency shelters have opened as the international airport remains closed due to damage sustained in previous storms. French officials report that military and emergency personnel are actively engaged in assisting the affected population and restoring access across the islands. The urgency of the situation is amplified by recent frustrations from residents aimed at the French government over perceived neglect, particularly following the devastation of Cyclone Chido, the most severe cyclone to strike Mayotte in nearly a century.

Mayotte, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, has recently experienced two significant storms within a short time frame, starting with Cyclone Chido on December 14, 2024. This cyclone has been described as the worst in 90 years, resulting in severe loss of life and widespread destruction. The storms have highlighted long-standing grievances among the population regarding the perceived lack of adequate governmental support and resources, particularly from the French government, in dealing with natural disasters. The region, which is the poorest in the European Union, faces additional challenges due to the high number of undocumented migrants residing there, complicating relief and recovery efforts.

The arrival of Tropical Storm Dikeledi over Mayotte highlights the ongoing plight of the region still reeling from the unprecedented impact of Cyclone Chido. With fatalities already confirmed and many individuals still missing, the local authorities face an immense challenge in their recovery efforts while concentrating on ensuring the safety of the residents. The red alert status underscores the seriousness of the situation and the ongoing vulnerability of Mayotte to natural disasters, raising additional concerns about the adequacy of response measures from the French government, which has been met with criticism from the local population.

Original Source: news.sky.com