Cyclone Chido has battered the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, causing several fatalities and significant damage. Officials are calling it the most destructive storm to hit the region in nearly a century.
Powerful Winds of Over 220 kph Wreak Havoc
The cyclone struck with winds exceeding 220 kph, ripping off roofs, flattening homes, and uprooting trees. The archipelago, home to over 300,000 residents and located 800 km off Mozambique’s coast, suffered extensive infrastructure damage.
Speaking during a crisis meeting in Paris, French Prime Minister François Bayrou highlighted the far-reaching impact of the storm. “We are concerned not just with immediate relief but also with ensuring essential supplies like water and food in the coming weeks, especially for critical facilities such as detention centers,” he said.
Loss of Life and Rescue Challenges
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau reported preliminary fatalities but was unable to confirm exact numbers due to the difficulty of assessing the damage. “We will need short-term housing solutions and additional military reinforcements in the coming days,” Retailleau stated.
Emergency Response Underway
France’s Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that the military is mobilized, with a relief flight already en route to the territory. President Emmanuel Macron is closely monitoring the crisis.
Mayotte’s prefect, François-Xavier Bieuville, described the cyclone as the worst since 1934, stating, “Many have lost everything.” The highest alert has been lifted to facilitate rescue operations, but the population remains under a red alert, advised to stay in safe shelters.
Damage to Infrastructure and Power Outages
Mayotte’s airport suffered severe damage, particularly to its control tower, according to Transport Minister François Durovray. Air traffic is restricted to military flights, and ships are being used to deliver essential supplies. Thousands of homes are without electricity, and makeshift structures have been destroyed, reported local broadcaster Mayotte la 1ère.
Security and Relief Reinforcements Deployed
To prevent looting and assist residents, 1,600 police and gendarmerie officers have been deployed. An initial team of 110 rescuers from France and La Réunion is on the ground, with an additional 140 personnel set to arrive.
Mayotte Faces Ongoing Challenges
As France’s poorest department, Mayotte has long struggled with drought, infrastructure issues, and gang violence. Earlier this year, the island faced severe water shortages, compounding the challenges of the current disaster. Cyclone Chido has added to the region’s difficulties, leaving recovery efforts critical for the territory’s future stability.