Devastation in Mayotte Following Cyclone Chido: A Preliminary Overview

Tropical cyclone Chido struck Mayotte on December 14, causing severe damages. Satellite images reveal extensive destruction, particularly in Mamoudzou, where buildings faced winds exceeding 180 km/h. Approximately 70% of the population is reportedly affected, with over 19,000 structures and 105 km of roads damaged or destroyed, highlighting the urgent need for recovery efforts.

Approximately four days following the impact of tropical cyclone Chido on Mayotte, which occurred on December 14, the French government has not yet finalized the human toll assessment. However, reports suggest that fatalities could potentially reach the hundreds. Satellite imagery released by Agence France-Presse, provided by Maxar, unveiled alarming levels of destruction across the territory, particularly in Mamoudzou, the capital, where over 180 km/h winds severely compromised the structural integrity of numerous buildings.

The cyclone’s winds, which gusted up to 250 km/h in northern areas, have left behind widespread devastation. The industrial regions in the northern part of Mamoudzou experienced slightly less damage, but critical infrastructure was still impacted. Notably, the marina along the east coast was entirely destroyed due to storm conditions and marine submersion, marking a significant loss for the area.

In Petite-Terre, encompassing the towns of Dzaoudzi and Pamandzi, preliminary assessments indicate extensive damage. Particularly affected was the port of Dzaoudzi, where damage to the quays evidences the force of the cyclone. The French Interior Ministry has relayed that approximately 70% of the population of Mayotte has been significantly impacted. Moreover, satellite assessments from the European Copernicus program reveal that more than 19,000 buildings and 105 km of roadways have been severely damaged or destroyed, further illustrating the scale of this natural disaster.

Tropical cyclone Chido struck Mayotte, an overseas territory of France located in the Indian Ocean, on December 14, causing significant devastation. In the aftermath, the French government has faced challenges in gauging the full extent of the human and infrastructural consequences. The cyclone’s wind speeds were among the highest recorded in the region, leading to considerable damage in both urban and rural areas, further necessitating a comprehensive emergency response.

In conclusion, tropical cyclone Chido has inflicted catastrophic damages on Mayotte, impacting nearly 70% of the population and leading to an extensive loss of infrastructure. The reports of 19,000 damaged buildings and over 100 km of roads highlight a pressing need for recovery efforts. As assessments continue, the human toll may still escalate, demanding urgent assistance from national and international bodies.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr