Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Leading to 14 Confirmed Deaths

Tropical Cyclone Chido has struck Mayotte, claiming at least 14 lives and injuring many more. The storm is the most destructive since 1934, with extensive damage reported in Mamoudzou. Emergency response teams are working to reach affected areas, as a humanitarian aid mission has been initiated by the French government.

On December 15, reports confirmed the tragic toll of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte, with at least 14 lives lost in the wake of the storm. Local authorities have characterized Chido as the most catastrophic cyclone to impact the French archipelago since 1934. The cyclone produced winds exceeding 220 km per hour, causing widespread destruction, particularly in Mamoudzou, the archipelago’s capital. While nine individuals are in critical condition, 246 others have sustained various injuries, leaving officials alarmed over the possibility of further fatalities as responders access damaged communities.

Emergency response teams have indicated that precarious housing areas, home to around 100,000 residents, have suffered immense destruction, resulting in many people being reported as unaccounted for. Essential infrastructure has been severely impacted, with significant damage inflicted on roads and the international airport, whose control tower is currently non-operational. Additionally, the region is grappling with extensive power outages and a shortage of potable water.

In light of this disaster, the French government mobilized an initial group of 140 military personnel and rescue firefighters from mainland France, with plans to escalate the response to 800 personnel. A military A400M transport aircraft has also been deployed, delivering essential humanitarian aid to assist with urgent needs in the catastrophe’s aftermath.

The French archipelago of Mayotte, situated in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique, is particularly vulnerable to severe weather events due to its geographic location. Tropical cyclones are common in this region, which can result in devastating impacts on local communities, infrastructure, and economies. The historical backdrop of cyclones affecting Mayotte underscores the dangers and the need for readiness in facing such natural disasters.

In summary, Cyclone Chido has resulted in significant loss of life and extensive damage across Mayotte, marking a sobering event in the region’s history. The swift response from the French government signals both urgency and a commitment to assist those affected. As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on addressing immediate humanitarian needs while assessing the full scope of the damage.

Original Source: efe.com