Mayotte Issues Red Alert as Cyclone Dikeledi Approaches After Recent Storm Crisis

Mayotte is under red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches after severe destruction from Cyclone Chido. Authorities expect strong winds, heavy rain, and potential mudslides as the cyclone moves west toward the islands. Emergency preparations are underway to protect the population still recovering from the recent storm’s effects, which had a significant death toll and injuries in the region.

Mayotte has once again been placed on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches the French territory. This warning was issued by the Prefecture of Mayotte at 10 p.m. local time in anticipation of the cyclone’s impact. Dikeledi, which made landfall in northern Madagascar earlier, is projected to reach Mayotte early Sunday, prompting emergency personnel to be on high alert to ensure the safety of the population.

Authorities expect Dikeledi to weaken as it nears Mayotte, likely becoming a strong tropical storm. However, heavy rain and strong winds are still anticipated, with gusts predicted to reach up to 110 kph (68 mph). The cyclone is expected to pass approximately 75 kilometers (46 miles) south of Mayotte, but the situation remains concerning due to the area’s prior devastation from Cyclone Chido.

Mayotte is still recovering from Cyclone Chido, which recently wreaked havoc on the islands, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and over 2,000 injuries. This cyclone was characterized as the worst to strike Mayotte in nearly a century, flattening neighborhoods and causing significant destruction to the densely populated archipelago that hosts over 320,000 residents, including many in precarious living conditions. Cyclone Chido also had lethal effects in Mozambique and Malawi as it progressed across the region.

While Cyclone Dikeledi is not anticipated to be as powerful as Cyclone Chido, which exhibited winds exceeding 200 kph (124 mph), authorities remain vigilant for additional rain and potential mudslides. The prefect of Mayotte emphasized these risks, as the cyclone season reigns from November to April, bringing numerous storms to the southwestern Indian Ocean, including the devastating Cyclone Idai in 2019, which led to over 1,500 deaths across several nations.

Cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean runs from November to April, posing significant risks to regions such as Mayotte, situated off the east coast of Africa. Cyclone Dikeledi follows the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, which left the territory in dire conditions. Historical data reveals that prior cyclones, like Idai in 2019, have led to grievous humanitarian crises in surrounding nations, highlighting the potential for catastrophic impacts from these weather phenomena.

In summary, Mayotte is under red alert due to the impending arrival of Cyclone Dikeledi, following the severe aftermath of Cyclone Chido. Authorities are mobilizing to safeguard residents as the region braces for challenging weather conditions. The ongoing cyclone season raises significant concerns for the islands, which are still recovering from recent disasters. Continuous vigilance and readiness are essential to mitigate the potential impact of Dikeledi and ensure community safety.

Original Source: apnews.com