Yemen: Cyclone Mekunu hits Socotra island May 24

Event

On Thursday, May 24, Cyclone Mekunu hit the Yemeni island of Socotra, located in the Arabian Sea, resulting in severe flooding and wind damage. At least 19 people have been reported missing. Furthermore, at least two ships were sunk in the storm and two others are missing. The island - a UNESCO heritage site - has been declared a "disaster" zone by the Yemeni government, currently exiled in Saudi Arabia. Local reports indicate that more than 200 families have been displaced, especially in areas near the northern coast.

Context

Cyclone Mekunu is forecast to continue on and make landfall near Salalah, Oman, late on Friday (local time) or early Saturday.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to monitor weather reports, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, prepare for associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders). Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwaters may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.