Mayotte Braces for New Storm Dikeledi After Cyclone Chido’s Devastation

Mayotte is preparing for a new storm, Dikeledi, less than a month after Cyclone Chido caused significant devastation. The French weather service has issued a red alert, warning of potential flash floods and strong winds. Over 4,000 personnel are mobilized to assist residents still recovering from recent calamities, highlighting the urgency of preparation and the serious risks posed by the new storm.

In the aftermath of the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, the French territory of Mayotte is preparing for the arrival of a new storm named Dikeledi. The storm, projected to veer approximately 100 kilometers south of the territory, has prompted authorities to issue a red alert due to the potential for severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and flash floods. The French weather service, Meteo-France, has warned residents to exercise “extreme vigilance” as the storm may intensify into a cyclone by Monday morning.

The region is still in recovery from Cyclone Chido, which inflicted unprecedented damage, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and over 5,600 injuries, marking it as the most destructive storm in nine decades in Mayotte. Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville emphasized the urgency of the situation by moving the red alert to 10:00 PM GMT, urging residents to shelter themselves and their families ahead of potential mudslides and flooding.

Authorities have mobilized over 4,000 personnel to assist in this impending crisis, opening accommodation centers to support those still displaced following Cyclone Chido. Local resident Ismahane expressed her concerns about Dikeledi, stating, “We are still not fully recovered, and I do not know if we are going to make it or not,” as she prepped essential supplies for her family. Overall, Mayotte is on high alert, as the region braces for yet another natural disaster while still healing from the last.

Mayotte, a French department located in the Indian Ocean, has faced significant challenges due to the impact of severe cyclones in recent months. Cyclone Chido, which struck the territory in mid-December, wreaked havoc, leading to numerous fatalities and widespread damage. As the community strives to rebuild and recover, meteorological forecasts for new storms contribute to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty among the residents. The storms pose serious risks, including flooding, mudslides, and additional loss of life and property, particularly in vulnerable areas within Mayotte’s population.

Mayotte is currently facing the imminent threat of a new storm, Dikeledi, barely a month after recovering from Cyclone Chido’s devastating effects. With authorities on high alert and urging residents to prepare for extreme weather conditions, the community grapples with feelings of vulnerability. The ongoing recovery efforts remain critical, as the region braces itself for potential further destruction. Collective vigilance and preparedness are deemed essential as Mayotte navigates this challenging situation and aims for stability once more.

Original Source: www.france24.com