Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Resulting in Deaths and Significant Destruction
At least 11 individuals have died due to Cyclone Chido’s devastation in Mayotte. The cyclone caused extensive damage with winds exceeding 220 kph, injuring hundreds and leaving neighborhoods flattened. It has now moved to Mozambique, threatening millions. This cyclone is reported as the worst in 90 years for Mayotte, known for its socio-economic challenges.
Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, claiming the lives of at least 11 individuals, according to the statements made by France’s Interior Ministry on Sunday. Efforts to ascertain the exact number of casualties and injuries have been hindered, amid concerns that the toll could rise. Reports indicate that a hospital in Mayotte is treating nine patients in critical condition, while 246 others have sustained injuries.
The cyclone significantly impacted the southeastern Indian Ocean, particularly affecting the nearby islands of Comoros and Madagascar. Officials reported extensive destruction in Mayotte as the cyclone made landfall on Saturday, with the local prefect labeling it the most severe cyclone to strike the territory in 90 years. Winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour caused considerable devastation, tearing off rooftops and demolishing numerous small structures, affecting a population of over 300,000 across two primary islands located approximately 800 kilometers from the African mainland.
Destruction was widespread, with entire neighborhoods obliterated, numerous uprooted trees, and vessels flipped or sunk. The primary airport also sustained considerable damage, as confirmed by the French transport minister. Mayotte, noted as France’s poorest island, has faced challenges of drought and systemic underinvestment in the past.
Cyclone Chido has since moved to Mozambique on the African mainland, where emergency officials project that 2.5 million individuals in two northern provinces may be impacted. Additionally, the landlocked nations of Malawi and Zimbabwe are preparing for possible repercussions, including evacuations from vulnerable low-lying areas due to anticipated flooding. In recent years, the southeastern Indian Ocean has experienced a series of formidable cyclones, including Cyclone Idai in 2019, which resulted in over 1,500 fatalities across Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
Cyclones in the Indian Ocean pose significant challenges to the communities affected. Mayotte, as one of France’s overseas territories, has a history of vulnerability to natural disasters, exacerbated by its socio-economic challenges. The recent Cyclone Chido exemplifies the increasing frequency and intensity of such weather events in this region. The storm not only caused immediate destruction but also highlighted underlying issues of preparedness and infrastructure resilience in areas often neglected by investments. Understanding the impact of Cyclone Chido within this context sheds light on the necessity for enhanced disaster response strategies in both Mayotte and neighboring regions.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has inflicted fatal consequences and extensive damage in Mayotte, marking one of the most catastrophic weather events in recent history for the region. With a rising death toll and numerous individuals injured, the aftermath of the cyclone invites serious reflection on disaster preparedness and response frameworks in place. As the cyclone moves toward Mozambique and potentially impacts other African countries, the lessons learned from this disaster may offer critical insights for future resilience planning against natural calamities.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
