Mayotte: France’s Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte has been devastated by Cyclone Chido, the most powerful storm to hit the region in nearly a century.
With wind speeds exceeding 225 km/h (140 mph), the cyclone made landfall, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. At least two deaths have been reported, with fears that the death toll may rise.
French President Emmanuel Macron assured the people of Mayotte that France would stand by them, while Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau revealed that all makeshift homes on the islands had been destroyed.
Retailleau described the storm’s impact as “exceptional” and warned of significant casualties. Around 250 emergency responders, including firefighters and civil security personnel, have been dispatched to Mayotte, with additional reinforcements on the way.
Massive Destruction
Mayotte, an archipelago located northwest of Madagascar and home to around 300,000 residents, has seen tens of thousands lose their homes as the cyclone ripped through the region.
Most residents live in shacks with metal sheet roofs, which were no match for the storm. Essential services, including electricity, water, and internet, have been completely disrupted.
Our thoughts are with all bracing for cyclone #Chido and reeling from this devastating storm. Stay safe ❤️#Madagascar #Mayotte #Comoros #Mozambique
Big Oil corporations are worsening extreme weather disasters everywhere. They must be held to account.
pic.twitter.com/oHFTsHTwr9— Greenpeace International (@Greenpeace) December 14, 2024
Pamandzi Airport sustained significant damage, including to its control tower, according to Acting French Transport Minister François Durovray. Military transport planes are delivering supplies and supporting emergency operations, while ships are enroute to ensure further resupply efforts.
Emergency Response Hindered
The head of Mayotte’s firefighters’ union, Abdoul Karim Ahmed Allaoui, described the dire situation, noting that even emergency responders were initially immobilized due to the severity of the storm.
Communication lines were cut, and buildings designed to withstand earthquakes failed to hold up under Chido’s force. The emergency services command center had to be partially evacuated.
Government Support
French Prime Minister François Bayrou, who assumed office just days ago, called the cyclone an “exceptionally severe event.” He has convened emergency meetings in Paris to coordinate relief efforts.
A purple alert, the highest warning level, was initially issued, forcing a strict lockdown of the entire population, including emergency responders.
The alert has since been downgraded to red, allowing rescue teams to begin their work.
Cyclone Chido, the strongest storm to hit Mayotte since 1934, is now expected to head toward Mozambique on the African mainland, raising concerns of further devastation.
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