Mayotte is bracing for Cyclone Dikeledi, which is expected to approach closely on Sunday, prompting an escalation of alert levels due to severe weather forecasts. This cyclone comes shortly after Cyclone Chido’s devastation, which left thousands displaced and over 5,000 injured. Authorities are preparing emergency shelters and mobilizing assistance to safeguard the vulnerable population before the new storm arrives.
The French territory of Mayotte is under a heightened cyclone alert as preparations intensify for the approach of Cyclone Dikeledi. The Minister of Overseas Territories announced that the alert status will escalate to red due to anticipated severe weather conditions on Saturday night. This warning follows an emergency cabinet meeting in Paris that underscored the urgency of the situation. The national weather service, Météo France, forecasts that the cyclone will pass within 75 kilometers of Mayotte, with average wind speeds between 50 and 60 km/h and possible gusts reaching up to 120 km/h. Authorities are especially concerned about the potential for coastal flooding and have suspended local ferry services.
The crisis is compounded by the recent devastation from Cyclone Chido, which occurred less than a month prior and resulted in at least 39 fatalities and over 5,000 injuries. The storm displaced thousands of residents, many of whom continue to depend on donations and temporary shelters. Local officials have been directed to reopen accommodation facilities to aid those affected, as the community still relies heavily on emergency support. Precautions have also been taken, including the positioning of emergency personnel in areas particularly vulnerable to mudslides, especially around the capital, Mamoudzou. With a notable wet storm on the horizon, residents are urged to secure provisions and seek appropriate shelter.
Mayotte is a solitary island located in the Indian Ocean, which has recently encountered severe weather threats due to climate conditions. As an overseas department of France, it receives assistance from mainland cities in times of crisis. This current alert comes on the heels of Cyclone Chido, the most catastrophic storm experienced in over nine decades, leading to significant loss of life and long-lasting impacts on the population, which is estimated to include a significant undocumented demographic. The region faces challenges from both natural disasters and the socio-economic realities of its inhabitants, many of whom reside in precarious living conditions that exacerbate the risks during such weather events.
In conclusion, Mayotte stands on the brink of facing another severe cyclone, Dikeledi, as authorities implement significant safety measures following the recent devastation from Cyclone Chido. This evolving situation highlights the urgent need for community support and preparedness among residents, who have already endured significant hardships. The territorial government is mobilizing resources and assistance to mitigate the impact on its population, and the public is urged to remain vigilant and proactive in their response to impending adverse conditions.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
