Cyclone Chido Ravages Mayotte, Leaving Tragedy in Its Wake

The recent passage of Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in Mayotte, with at least 11 lives claimed and widespread devastation reported. Emergency services are struggling to respond to the crisis, as infrastructure is severely impacted.

France's Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte has been devastated by Cyclone Chido, which has been described as the most powerful cyclone to strike the islands in nearly a century. As of now, the cyclone has reportedly claimed at least 11 lives and left 246 injured, although some sources speculate that the toll could be even higher; AFP cites at least 14 fatalities based on security reports.

The cyclone, which made landfall on Saturday, brought wind gusts exceeding 225 km/h (140 mph), leading to catastrophic damage throughout the region. French President Emmanuel Macron assured that France would "be there" to assist the affected population. Responding to the emergency, the French government dispatched 250 firefighters and security personnel, who are already on the ground in Mayotte.

Bruno Retailleau, France's interior minister, expressed grave concerns about the situation, stating that “all makeshift homes have been completely destroyed” and warned the death toll could increase. The island is home to a significant number of people living in vulnerable structures, and tens of thousands are now without shelter.

Utilities such as electricity, water, and internet services are currently non-operational. In response to the crisis, military transport planes loaded with supplies and emergency personnel have been sent to the islands. Reports indicate significant damage to the Pamandzi airport's control tower, which will complicate air traffic and transportation efforts.

Even prior to the cyclone's full impact, Mayotte was dealing with widespread destruction, including uprooted trees and collapsed roofs. Local emergency responders have faced challenges in rescue operations due to downed communication systems, with even the emergency services command center operating at limited capacity.

Retailleau has stated that emergency measures have been put in place, and additional personnel are en route to assist local responders. French Prime Minister François Bayrou, who recently assumed office, characterized the cyclone as "exceptional in severity" and is closely monitoring the situation.

Mayotte was initially placed under a purple alert, the highest possible, with strict lockdown measures enforced. However, this alert has since been downgraded to allow emergency services to operate more freely as they continue their critical work.

After devastating Mayotte, Cyclone Chido has intensified and moved across the Mozambique Channel, causing significant rainfall and wind damage in the coastal city of Pemba, Mozambique. The storm's path is expected to bring heavy rains and potential flooding to southern Malawi and parts of Zimbabwe in the days ahead.