Tropical cyclone Chido devastated Mayotte on December 14, causing widespread destruction. Satellite images reveal significant damage, particularly in Mamoudzou, where most buildings were unable to withstand winds exceeding 180 km/h. Approximately 70% of the population has been affected, with over 19,000 buildings damaged. The human toll is still uncertain, but fears of numerous casualties persist.
In the aftermath of tropical cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte on Saturday, December 14, the extent of the devastation is becoming increasingly apparent. Four days post-disaster, the French government has yet to ascertain the exact human toll on this overseas territory in the Indian Ocean, although there are apprehensions that fatalities could reach into the hundreds. Satellite imagery provided by Maxar, published through Agence France-Presse, highlights a significant level of destruction, particularly in the capital, Mamoudzou, where strong winds exceeded 180 km/h with gusts nearing 250 km/h.
Buildings throughout Mamoudzou sustained severe damage, illustrating the overwhelming nature of the cyclone. The northern industrial zone, characterized by more resilient constructions, experienced damage but fared comparatively better than residential areas. The cyclone’s impact included the total destruction of the marina along Route Nationale No. 2, illustrating the storm’s capacity for marine submersion. On the smaller island of Petite-Terre, including the towns of Dzaoudzi and Pamandzi, the cyclone made landfall first, inflicting similar levels of destruction.
Based on assessments by the Interior Ministry, approximately 70% of Mayotte’s population has been severely affected by Cyclone Chido. Emergency data from the European Copernicus program estimates damage to over 19,000 buildings and 105 kilometers of road infrastructure, underscoring the magnitude of the crisis.
Cyclone Chido’s severe impact on Mayotte has raised significant concerns regarding the safety and welfare of its inhabitants. As a French overseas territory situated in the Indian Ocean, Mayotte has faced various natural disasters, but the intensity of this cyclone is unprecedented. The government’s ongoing assessment aims to provide clarity regarding human casualties, while rapid evaluations using satellite technology offer insight into the extensive physical damage. Such events invite scrutiny and discussion regarding emergency preparedness and response in vulnerable regions.
In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has wrought significant devastation upon Mayotte, with a potential human toll that could be severe. The visible destruction of infrastructure and homes, coupled with the staggering estimate of affected residents, presents an urgent humanitarian challenge. Efforts must be intensified to support recovery and reassess disaster preparedness protocols in this vulnerable region.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
