Mayotte Remains on High Alert as Tropical Storm Dikeledi Departs

Mayotte is on high alert due to tropical storm Dikeledi, which threatens the French territory after causing fatalities and destruction in Madagascar. The region is recovering from a severe cyclone that struck in December. Officials report no casualties in Mayotte but flood risks remain, with ongoing heavy rainfall expected. Emergency services are actively engaged as residents are advised to stay confined during the storm’s trajectory.

Mayotte remains under high alert as tropical storm Dikeledi continues to pose a risk, despite moving away from the region. The storm, which has already led to severe flooding and has caused casualties in Madagascar, specifically claimed three lives in the country. Manuel Valls, the French Minister for Overseas Territories, noted the intense impact of the storm on Mayotte, though local officials reported no deaths on the island itself. In the wake of Dikeledi, ongoing weather patterns threaten to exacerbate flooding already present in the territory, with a red alert remaining in effect until Monday evening.

As of late Saturday night, the storm was located approximately 210 kilometers south of Mayotte. Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville emphasized the “very fragile” state of the territory following a devastating cyclone that struck just a month prior, resulting in significant destruction and fatalities. Local emergency services responded to reports of homes being washed away, especially in the southern regions, where multiple villages were inundated. Despite the danger, some residents are seen defying the restrictions by venturing outside, while rescue services remain mobilized across the territory.

Mayotte is a French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean, which has been particularly vulnerable to tropical storms and cyclones due to its geographical position. The territory recently suffered a catastrophic cyclone in December that resulted in considerable damage and loss of life. The current situation arises as storm Dikeledi, initially impacting Madagascar, poses ongoing threats to Mayotte. Both Dikeledi and the previous cyclone represent the serious climate challenges faced by these regions. With a significant population living in precarious conditions, especially in shanty towns, the impact of severe weather events is especially acute.

In summary, Mayotte is currently facing the aftermath of tropical storm Dikeledi, which has raised concerns for the already vulnerable territory. The storm has moved southward but continues to threaten the region with heavy rain and flooding. In light of prior devastating cyclones, local officials are emphasizing the fragile state of the territory, while emergency services remain active. As the situation continues to develop, ongoing vigilance is critical to ensure public safety.

Original Source: www.france24.com