Mayotte is on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches after devastating impacts from Cyclone Chido a month ago. Dikeledi is expected to bring heavy winds and rains. Authorities are preparing to protect residents as the island remains vulnerable during cyclone season.
Mayotte has been placed on red alert as Cyclone Dikeledi approaches the French territory off the coast of Africa. This response comes following the devastation of Cyclone Chido, which inflicted extensive damage on the island just a month earlier. The local authorities issued the red alert shortly after 10 p.m. local time, anticipating the arrival of Dikeledi, which had made landfall in northern Madagascar earlier in the day.
Mayotte is a small archipelago with a population of over 320,000, and the region faces a challenging cyclone season from November to April. Cyclone Chido recently struck, killing at least 39 and injuring more than 2,000. The territory also hosts a significant number of migrants living in vulnerable conditions. Dikeledi, though less potent than Chido, is expected to bring heavy rains and winds, raising concerns about potential mudslides.
In summary, Mayotte’s latest red alert for Cyclone Dikeledi highlights the continuing struggle of the region to cope with severe weather events. While Dikeledi is projected to be weaker than its predecessor, Cyclone Chido, the risk of flooding and mudslides remains substantial. Ongoing preparedness efforts are crucial as the islands work to recover from previous storms and mitigate further impacts.
Original Source: apnews.com