Cyclone Chido, the worst storm to hit the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte in almost a century, has caused widespread devastation, leaving hundreds feared dead. The cyclone, which struck on Saturday, uprooted trees, destroyed homes, and severely damaged the archipelago’s already fragile infrastructure.
As of Sunday, at least 11 deaths were confirmed, but local officials fear the toll could rise to several hundred or even thousands, especially since many residents are Muslim and bury their dead within 24 hours. The presence of around 100,000 undocumented residents further complicates efforts to determine an accurate death toll.
Rescue operations are underway, but they face significant challenges due to the severe damage to Mayotte’s airports, electricity systems, and water supplies. The island’s infrastructure, already vulnerable due to chronic shortages of clean drinking water, has been further strained.
Emergency responders, including military personnel and medical teams, have been dispatched, but getting assistance to those in need is complicated by the widespread destruction, especially in areas where makeshift homes were completely flattened by the storm.
In addition to the human toll, the cyclone has caused extensive physical damage. The mayor of Mayotte’s capital, Mamoudzou, reported that hospitals, schools, and homes were destroyed, with some areas left unrecognizable.
Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Leaving Hundreds Feared Dead and Infrastructure in Ruins
Hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, and many people remain trapped in their homes or are unable to reach help due to blocked roads. The French government is working to establish an air and sea bridge to the island, with medical supplies, blood, and rescue personnel being flown in from nearby Réunion.
The economic impact on Mayotte, which is France’s poorest island, is also severe. Entire neighborhoods, particularly those made up of metal shacks and huts, have been flattened. With the power grid down and the water supply disrupted, efforts to restore basic services have become a priority.
International assistance is arriving, with European Union officials, including Ursula von der Leyen, and French President Emmanuel Macron pledging support. The international community’s focus is on restoring power and providing clean water to the island’s residents as they face immediate and long-term recovery challenges.
Beyond Mayotte, Cyclone Chido has affected neighboring regions, including the islands of Comoros and Madagascar. In Comoros, 11 fishermen are missing, while Madagascar also reported significant damage. The cyclone’s path has now moved to Mozambique, where it is expected to affect millions, causing widespread destruction and posing further risks of flooding, disease outbreaks, and loss of life.
Cyclone seasons in the region are becoming more intense due to the effects of climate change, adding to the humanitarian crisis in one of the world’s poorest regions. Climate experts urge wealthier nations to provide more support to combat the impacts of these increasingly devastating storms.
