Cyclone Chido Causes Catastrophic Damage in Mayotte

Cyclone Chido has severely impacted Mayotte, leading to widespread destruction and a red alert declaration. With substantial wind damage and thousands without power, emergency services are mobilized to assist residents. Authorities stress the importance of community solidarity during this critical time as assessments of damage and responses to prevent looting are underway.

Cyclone Chido has wreaked “catastrophic” havoc on the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, prompting officials to issue a red alert. Although this alert level is a downgrade from the highest violet alert, Prefect François-Xavier Bieuville cautioned that “the cyclone is not over” and urged residents to remain “confined” and “united” amid the crisis. This event has reportedly caused extensive damage, making it the worst cyclone the archipelago has endured in ninety years. With many residents having lost everything, Bieuville emphasized the importance of community solidarity during this challenging time.

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau confirmed that 110 civil security personnel and firefighters had already been deployed to the island, with an additional 140 expected to arrive soon. Authorities have begun assessing critical infrastructures, including hospitals and airports, while implementing public order measures to prevent looting. According to the ministry, the extent of the human and material toll remains uncertain, and the population is required to remain indoors under red alert conditions.

Météo France reported wind speeds of at least 226 kilometers per hour recorded at Pamandzi airport, although conditions were anticipated to improve as the cyclone moved away. Satellite images indicated that the cyclone’s eye passed over northern Mayotte, with its trajectory now directed toward the coast of Mozambique, leaving intense winds and rain in its wake. With over 15,000 households reported to be without power, Mayotte’s firefighters’ union highlighted significant communication challenges, noting the absence of mobile phone service, which has hindered outreach efforts.

Road traffic was prohibited, and Dzaoudzi airport was closed due to the cyclone’s impact. Prime Minister François Bayrou indicated a commitment to staying updated on the situation, and President Emmanuel Macron assured the residents of Mayotte that “the whole country is at your side.” He emphasized the urgent nature of the situation and announced the provision of reinforcements to assist during this crisis.

Cyclone Chido affected Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, leading to widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis. Mayotte has experienced severe weather events, but Cyclone Chido is noted as the most violent in nearly a century. The aftermath of severe cyclones often includes extensive infrastructure damage and challenges in communication and emergency response, emphasizing the need for effective disaster management measures and community resilience.

In summary, Cyclone Chido has caused unprecedented damage in Mayotte, necessitating ongoing emergency response efforts and community solidarity. With thousands without power and basic services disrupted, local and national authorities are mobilizing resources to assist residents facing this challenging ordeal. The government’s commitment to providing support and ensuring public safety is crucial as the island begins to assess the full impact of the cyclone and prepares for recovery efforts.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr