Cyclone Chido has hit Mayotte, leading to at least 11 deaths and hundreds of injuries. Classified as the worst storm in 90 years, it has caused extensive property damage, leaving over 15,000 homes without power. Following the disaster, France plans to deploy additional support to assist with recovery efforts as education and health facilities face devastation.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has tragically impacted the French archipelago of Mayotte in the Indian Ocean, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and leaving hundreds more injured. This storm, deemed the most severe to strike Mayotte in 90 years, has devastated the island, causing extensive property damage, uprooting trees, and leaving more than 15,000 homes without power. In response to the disaster, France’s acting Interior Minister is anticipated to visit Mayotte, accompanied by a contingent of 160 soldiers and firefighters to assist recovery efforts.
Reports indicate that the precise death toll and extent of injuries are challenging to ascertain, particularly within the culturally sensitive context where burials occur shortly after passing. Among the injured, nine individuals are reported to be in critical condition, with an additional 246 experiencing severe injuries. The cyclone’s winds, exceeding 220 kph, wreaked havoc across the islands, prompting local government officials to declare a lockdown for the island’s 320,000 residents.
Jean-François Colombet, the prefect of Mayotte, highlighted the historical significance of this cyclone, referring to it as the worst in nearly a century. The storm has not only affected Mayotte but has also impacted nearby islands, such as Comoros and Madagascar. Significant structural damage has been reported, including destruction at the main airport and widespread devastation to residential neighborhoods. Aid and rescue operations are being mobilized despite infrastructure challenges caused by the cyclone.
In parallel, UNICEF is actively engaged in relief efforts, emphasizing the need to restore essential services following substantial destruction to homes, schools, and healthcare facilities. Cyclone Chido has moved on, now affecting mainland Mozambique, where authorities are preparing for a humanitarian crisis that may involve millions. The situation reflects a pattern of increasingly severe weather events impacting the region, reminiscent of previous notable cyclones.
Cyclone Chido represents the latest in a series of tropical cyclones adversely affecting the Indian Ocean region, particularly targeting the French overseas department of Mayotte. Situated approximately 800 kilometers from the African coast, Mayotte has historically faced challenges related to underinvestment and socio-economic struggles. In recent years, the region has experienced droughts and rising gang violence, compounding issues surrounding natural disasters. The cyclone’s trajectory also extends to the neighboring islands of Comoros and Madagascar, increasing regional vulnerability to natural calamities, a pattern that has intensified in recent decades. Governments and humanitarian organizations are focusing on recovery and preparedness to mitigate future risks to these communities.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe damage on Mayotte, with significant loss of life and infrastructure. Challenges remain as officials attempt to assess the full impact of the storm, and humanitarian assistance is mobilizing to support the affected population. The situation highlights the necessity for improved disaster preparedness in the Indian Ocean region, particularly given the increasing frequency of such extreme weather events. The urgent need for support from national and international organizations is paramount to restore the affected communities and build resilience against future disasters.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
