Mayotte Faces Severe Flooding and Mudslides From Storm Dikeledi
Mayotte is reeling from severe flooding and mudslides due to storm Dikeledi, just a month after Cyclone Chido devastated the region. The government has implemented a red alert as authorities warn of continuing heavy rains and the risk of landslides, with numerous residents forced into emergency shelters. Approximately 14,500 people have sought refuge as the storm moves away from Mayotte, impacting the region’s already strained recovery efforts.
In the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, heavy rains prompted by storm Dikeledi have caused significant flooding and mudslides, exacerbating a crisis that followed Cyclone Chido just one month prior. Authorities declared a highest state of alert as the storm approached, warning residents of violent winds and potential landslides. Reports indicated that the village of Mbouini, previously unaffected by Cyclone Chido, was now inundated. As Dikeledi continued its journey south of the archipelago, the prefect of Mayotte noted the onset of severe rainfall, leading to mudslides across the region. Authorities anticipated that storm effects would linger, maintaining the red alert until Monday evening as emergency shelters accommodated approximately 14,500 evacuees.
Mayotte faces considerable challenges due to its geographic location and climatic conditions, being situated in the Indian Ocean, which makes it vulnerable to tropical storms and cyclones. Cyclone Chido severely impacted the region, resulting in extensive damage and loss of life, marking it as one of the worst storms to hit Mayotte in nearly a century. The current situation with storm Dikeledi further complicates recovery efforts as the region grapples with the compounded effects of consecutive storms. Amidst these natural disasters, a significant portion of the population lives in precarious conditions, often in shanty towns, which heightens their vulnerability during such calamities.
Mayotte’s recent ordeal with storms Dikeledi and Chido highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the territory due to extreme weather events. With homes damaged and many residents displaced, the local authorities continue to provide emergency responses as the region endures another wave of heavy rains and potential land hazards. The situation remains critical, necessitating ongoing monitoring and support to ensure the safety and recovery of the affected populations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
