Tropical Storm Dikeledi Causes Casualties in Madagascar and Concern in Mayotte

Tropical Storm Dikeledi has passed Mayotte but caused three fatalities in Madagascar. The storm, which approached as a cyclone, raised concerns in Mayotte, still recovering from a severe cyclone in December. Authorities mobilized thousands for disaster response as Dikeledi likely intensifies in the coming days.

A tropical storm named Dikeledi has moved away from Mayotte, having recently impacted the French territory and caused significant devastation in Madagascar. The storm struck Madagascar’s northern coast as a cyclone before diminishing into a severe tropical storm. Reports indicate that, as of Sunday afternoon, Dikeledi was located 160 kilometers south of Mayotte and was moving further away from the island. The cyclone raised concerns due to its recent predecessor that resulted in widespread destruction in December.

On Saturday evening, Mayotte was placed under a red alert in anticipation of Dikeledi’s approach, with the storm leading to torrential rains and flash floods. Madagascar’s Antsiranana province experienced severe conditions, resulting in three fatalities and affecting over 900 residents. Despite the hazardous weather, residents were observed attempting to secure their homes.

As the storm progressed, Mayotte was expected to endure intensified winds and rain, with gusts potentially reaching 90 kilometers per hour. The local government mobilized over 4,000 individuals to ensure safety and aid those impacted by the storm, establishing 80 accommodation centers for displaced persons. While Mayotte’s official population is 320,000, many undocumented residents face heightened risks due to their vulnerable living conditions.

Dikeledi is predicted to regain strength and may again be classified as a cyclone early next week, raising implications for nearby regions, including Mozambique and the Comoros, where heavy rainfall is forecasted.

Authorities remain vigilant and are closely monitoring the evolving situation regarding the storm and its aftermath, prioritizing the safety of the population in these affected regions and enforcing restrictions to prevent any possible casualties.

The article discusses the recent impact of Tropical Storm Dikeledi on Mayotte and Madagascar. It highlights the lethal consequences of the storm, particularly in Madagascar where it resulted in three deaths and affected numerous individuals. The storm comes on the heels of a catastrophic cyclone that struck Mayotte less than a month prior, emphasizing the region’s vulnerability to severe weather events. This situation also illustrates broader concerns regarding disaster preparedness and response in the context of climate-related hazards.

In summary, Tropical Storm Dikeledi has moved away from Mayotte, leaving a trail of devastation in Madagascar, where it resulted in fatalities and significant damage. The storm has raised underlying concerns regarding disaster response in a region already coping with the impacts of prior cyclones. As Dikeledi is anticipated to regain cyclone strength, vigilance remains crucial for local authorities and residents alike.

Original Source: www.france24.com