Mayotte on Red Alert as Cyclone Dikeledi Approaches Following Past Devastation
Mayotte faces another cyclone threat as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches, triggering a red alert. This follows the severe destruction from Cyclone Chido, which left at least 39 dead and many injured. Expected to bring strong winds and rain, Dikeledi demands heightened emergency preparedness in the region.
The French territory of Mayotte has been placed on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches the islands following the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido just a month prior. The Prefecture of Mayotte issued the warning at 10 p.m. local time amidst preparations for the cyclone’s expected arrival early Sunday. Emergency personnel remain on high alert as the cyclone may weaken but will still bring severe weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rains.
Cyclone Dikeledi, which made landfall in northern Madagascar earlier on Saturday, is projected to maintain a path that will bring it within close proximity to Mayotte, affecting the already vulnerable population there. Despite a decrease in intensity, meteorologists warn of potential wind gusts of up to 110 kilometers per hour and the risk of mudslides, particularly in light of the ongoing recovery from Cyclone Chido, which devastated the archipelago last month.
Mayotte, situated off the east coast of Africa, has been increasingly vulnerable to cyclonic activity during the November to April cyclone season of the southwestern Indian Ocean. In December 2024, the territory was tragically affected by Cyclone Chido, the worst storm to hit the region in nearly a century. This recent cyclone caused significant destruction, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and leaving thousands injured. The archipelago houses a population that includes many migrants, resulting in densely populated, informal housing that exacerbated the impact of Chido. The recurring threat of cyclones poses ongoing challenges for recovery and preparedness.
The issuance of a red alert for Mayotte in advance of Cyclone Dikeledi underlines the ongoing vulnerability of the territory following the catastrophic impacts of Cyclone Chido. With emergency services on heightened alert, local authorities seek to mitigate the risks posed by strong winds and heavy rainfall. As cyclone seasons persist, the need for effective preparedness and recovery strategies becomes increasingly essential for ensuring the safety of the island’s population.
Original Source: apnews.com
