Mayotte: Weather alert issued due to Tropical Cyclone Belna December 7

Event

Météo France issued an orange cyclone alert (second highest on a four-tier scale) for Mayotte on Saturday, December 7, as Tropical Cyclone Belna continues moving towards the region. Belna is forecast to pass by Mayotte on the evening (local time) of Sunday, December 8, or the morning of Monday, December 9. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the island, which may cause flooding or damage to infrastructure. Residents are being warned to stock up on water and prepare emergency kits as a precaution. Additional emergency personnel are being deployed to assist in potential recovery and response operations. Transportation and commercial disruptions are possible over the coming days.

As of 04:00 on December 8, Tropical Cyclone Belna is located at approximately 11.5°S 46.7°E with maximum sustained winds of 150 kph (93 mph). The storm is moving southwest at 13 kph (8 mph) and is expected to maintain its strength until it passes Mayotte.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.