A powerful cyclone, named Chido, has hit Mayotte, leading to significant destruction and numerous casualties as local authorities grapple with the aftermath.
Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte: Casualties and Destruction Reported
Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte: Casualties and Destruction Reported
At least 11 lives lost as Cyclone Chido strikes French territory in the Indian Ocean.
The French island territory of Mayotte has been severely impacted by Cyclone Chido, marking the worst storm to strike the region in nearly a century. The cyclone made landfall on Saturday, with wind gusts exceeding 225 km/h (140 mph), and initial reports indicate at least 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. Authorities fear the death toll could climb as rescue efforts continue.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed solidarity with the residents of Mayotte, promising that France will support them through this crisis. To assist in relief efforts, 250 firefighters and security personnel have been dispatched to the islands, with some already on the ground. The situation remains critical, with French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau reporting that makeshift homes have been obliterated, leaving tens of thousands homeless.
Local hospitals indicate 246 injuries related to the cyclone, while differing reports suggest at least 14 deaths, underscoring the chaotic conditions on the ground. Mayotte's infrastructure has suffered extensive damage, with electricity, water, and internet services disrupted. Government officials have sent military transport planes equipped with supplies and emergency workers in response to the escalating crisis.
Damage assessments reveal that Pamandzi airport has incurred major destruction, particularly to its control tower, which has hampered air traffic. The acting French Transport Minister, Francois Durovray, confirmed that military aid planes are being used to restore air travel, while ships are en route for resupply missions.
Before the cyclone's full impact, residents reported substantial property damage, uprooted trees, and downed power lines. Abdoul Karim Ahmed Allaoui, head of Mayotte's firefighters' union, highlighted the challenges faced by emergency responders due to communication breakdowns and the compromised condition of buildings, even those designed to withstand earthquakes.
Interior Minister Retailleau has assured the public of ongoing support and mobilization of emergency services. The severity of Cyclone Chido has been unprecedented, with officials declaring a purple alert—the highest emergency level—for the region. Although the alert status has since been downgraded, emergency access has been restricted until now.
As Cyclone Chido moves beyond Mayotte, it intensified over the Mozambique Channel, impacting nearby coastal areas, including the city of Pemba, where heavy rains and winds of up to 185 km/h (115 mph) have been reported. The cyclone's track may bring heavy rain and potential flooding to southern Malawi and Zimbabwe in the coming days.
With the unfolding situation, authorities and local agencies continue to work tirelessly to deliver aid and restore normalcy to the affected communities.
Additional reporting by Richard Kagoe.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed solidarity with the residents of Mayotte, promising that France will support them through this crisis. To assist in relief efforts, 250 firefighters and security personnel have been dispatched to the islands, with some already on the ground. The situation remains critical, with French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau reporting that makeshift homes have been obliterated, leaving tens of thousands homeless.
Local hospitals indicate 246 injuries related to the cyclone, while differing reports suggest at least 14 deaths, underscoring the chaotic conditions on the ground. Mayotte's infrastructure has suffered extensive damage, with electricity, water, and internet services disrupted. Government officials have sent military transport planes equipped with supplies and emergency workers in response to the escalating crisis.
Damage assessments reveal that Pamandzi airport has incurred major destruction, particularly to its control tower, which has hampered air traffic. The acting French Transport Minister, Francois Durovray, confirmed that military aid planes are being used to restore air travel, while ships are en route for resupply missions.
Before the cyclone's full impact, residents reported substantial property damage, uprooted trees, and downed power lines. Abdoul Karim Ahmed Allaoui, head of Mayotte's firefighters' union, highlighted the challenges faced by emergency responders due to communication breakdowns and the compromised condition of buildings, even those designed to withstand earthquakes.
Interior Minister Retailleau has assured the public of ongoing support and mobilization of emergency services. The severity of Cyclone Chido has been unprecedented, with officials declaring a purple alert—the highest emergency level—for the region. Although the alert status has since been downgraded, emergency access has been restricted until now.
As Cyclone Chido moves beyond Mayotte, it intensified over the Mozambique Channel, impacting nearby coastal areas, including the city of Pemba, where heavy rains and winds of up to 185 km/h (115 mph) have been reported. The cyclone's track may bring heavy rain and potential flooding to southern Malawi and Zimbabwe in the coming days.
With the unfolding situation, authorities and local agencies continue to work tirelessly to deliver aid and restore normalcy to the affected communities.
Additional reporting by Richard Kagoe.
