The Comoros declared a week of national mourning after Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte, causing significant human and infrastructural loss. President Azali Assoumani emphasized the need for solidarity during this tragic time.
The Comoros has officially declared a week of national mourning following the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, a category four storm that primarily impacted the nearby French overseas department of Mayotte. President Azali Assoumani announced this mourning period, which extends until Sunday, emphasizing the enormous damage to infrastructure and significant loss of life among Comoran nationals residing in shantytowns. The cyclone, which reached wind speeds exceeding 220 kilometers (137 miles) per hour, is considered the most severe in Mayotte’s history over the last 90 years and has raised fears of potentially hundreds of fatalities.
Cyclone Chido’s impact on the Comoros and Mayotte is particularly poignant due to the close geographical and cultural ties between the two areas. Mayotte, which opted to remain a French territory in referendums conducted in 1974 and 1976, is situated a mere 70 kilometers (43 miles) away from the Comoros. The cyclone’s devastation has highlighted the vulnerability of the population, especially in impoverished areas where many Comorans have sought better opportunities.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has led to a tragic humanitarian situation in the Comoros and Mayotte, prompting a national week of mourning in response to the catastrophic loss of life and extensive destruction. President Azali Assoumani’s declaration signals the need for solidarity and support for those affected. The cyclone’s unprecedented severity stresses the risks faced by communities in vulnerable housing amidst environmental threats.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
