Mayotte on red alert as it braces for another cyclone threat

Mayotte experienced significant challenges as Tropical Storm Dikeledi struck the French territory in the Indian Ocean. The storm caused heavy rains and consequent flooding, which further complicated recovery efforts from the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido just a month earlier. Cyclone Chido had already wreaked havoc, leading to at least 39 fatalities and leaving thousands injured. With the onslaught of Dikeledi, authorities issued a red alert, cautioning residents against the risks associated with flash floods and landslides. The efforts included mobilizing emergency personnel to safeguard the population as the storm approached. In response to the cyclone, many residents had sought refuge in emergency shelters due to the precarious nature of housing in Mayotte, particularly in shantytowns that bore the brunt of Chido’s impact. However, the renewed threat from Dikeledi forced authorities to re-open these shelters for those displaced by flooding. The local government had anticipated this possibility and had already prepared emergency plans, including closures of public infrastructure like the international airport, which had suffered damage under the previous cyclone. Vital resources including food and water were also prioritized, with residents advised to store supplies ahead of the storm's impact. The situation was not just a matter of immediate danger but also highlighted the underlying vulnerabilities of the population in Mayotte, which has been exacerbated due to its socio-economic conditions. Mayotte is known as France's poorest department, with a population of around 320,000, augmented by an estimated 100,000 undocumented migrants. Living conditions often rely on inadequate housing, making the communities susceptible to natural disasters. The constant threat of severe weather has raised concerns about alternative housing and an increased need for urgent disaster preparedness measures. As Dikeledi passed about 100 kilometers south of Mayotte, authorities were still vigilant, monitoring the storm’s trajectory, which might lead it to regain cyclone status as it moved toward Mozambique. Even though the impact of Dikeledi was recently noted, it served as a stark reminder of the cyclical nature of storms in the region, particularly since the cyclone season extends from November to April. Meteorological predictions suggested the possibility of more severe weather events in the near future, indicating that ongoing community resilience and recovery efforts must be prioritized to mitigate the impacts of these natural disasters.