Tropical Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte in Indian Ocean

Cyclone Chido severely affected Mayotte on December 14, bringing wind speeds over 200 km/h and causing significant destruction. This rare storm led to national mourning in France due to heavy loss of life and extensive damage despite advance warnings. The cyclone’s unusual path and its strength raised concerns about future weather patterns in the region.

Tropical cyclone Chido struck Mayotte on December 14, with winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour and gusts surpassing 225 kilometers per hour. This marked the most severe storm to impact Mayotte in at least 90 years, as reported by Météo-France. Accompanying the winds were torrential rains, totaling 176 millimeters in just 12 hours, and perilous sea conditions with wave heights averaging over 5 meters. The cyclone’s force was so intense that it demolished several of Météo-France’s observation structures.

Mayotte, a small island in the Indian Ocean, is not accustomed to such powerful tropical cyclones. The region typically experiences milder weather phenomena. The French government organized a national emergency response following concerns that hundreds of residents may have perished in this disaster. Although Météo-France issued warnings 50 hours prior to Chido’s landfall, the island’s lack of preparedness for such extreme conditions resulted in tragic consequences for its inhabitants.

In conclusion, the devastating impact of cyclone Chido on Mayotte underscores the increasing threat of severe weather events in regions ill-equipped to handle them. While the role of climate change remains uncertain, the cyclone’s unusual trajectory and strength highlight the need for robust disaster preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable areas. The anticipated 2024-2025 cyclone season may bring further challenges, necessitating vigilance and proactive measures.

Original Source: wmo.int