Comoros Declares National Mourning Following Cyclone Chido’s Devastation

Comoros declared a week of national mourning after Cyclone Chido ravaged Mayotte, leading to fears of several hundred fatalities. The cyclone, classified as a category four storm, caused widespread devastation, especially in shantytowns. Rescue efforts are underway, with significant assistance sent from France as local needs escalate, particularly concerning food, water, and medical care.

On Monday, the Comoros government instituted a week of national mourning following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Chido on neighboring Mayotte. This disaster, which authorities predict may lead to several hundred fatalities primarily in shantytowns inhabited by Comorans, has prompted President Azali Assoumani to declare the mourning period lasting until Sunday. Winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour devastated Mayotte, which is situated just 70 kilometers from Comoros. Amid this catastrophe, significant losses have been reported in infrastructure as well.

Despite Mayotte’s official population of 320,000, it is estimated that between 100,000 to 200,000 may live on the island due to irregular immigration from Comoros. Many undocumented individuals reportedly avoided seeking shelter for fear of being detained before the cyclone struck. The extent of destruction is massive, particularly in slum areas where residents face an uncertain future. Information suggests that all shantytowns have been leveled, indicating a substantial likelihood of casualties.

The impact of Cyclone Chido is described as the worst seen in Mayotte in nearly a century, classified as a category four storm. In the aftermath, French authorities have mobilized military resources to facilitate urgent assistance to the affected areas. This includes the use of ships and aircraft to transport supplies and rescue personnel.

With a significant loss of power and communication lines, as well as fears of drinking water shortages, conditions remain critical. The main hospital on the island has suffered extensive damages, further complicating the situation. Mayotte Senator Salama Ramia has highlighted that the urgency of aid is rising, stating that there is a dire lack of resources available to meet the needs of those affected, especially children.

As the region seeks to manage the aftermath of the cyclone, officials are concerned about accurately accounting for casualties, given local practices regarding burial. The Prefect for Mayotte, François-Xavier Bieuville, has expressed the grave situation, indicating that the death toll could potentially reach thousands as rescue efforts begin. France has already begun sending assistance from Reunion Island to aid those affected in Mayotte, reinforcing the solidarity between these territories in the wake of disaster.

The Comoros Islands, located between Madagascar and the African coast, have a complex historical relationship with Mayotte, which remains a French territory. Over the years, many individuals from Comoros have migrated to Mayotte, seeking better economic opportunities. This mass migration often occurs clandestinely, complicating the demographic landscape of Mayotte and presenting unique challenges during disasters. Following Cyclone Chido, which has been significantly destructive, the authorities are grappling with the response to a large and vulnerable population affected by the cyclone’s aftermath. The cyclone marks an unprecedented natural disaster, raising concerns over infrastructure, humanitarian aid, and emergency response capabilities in the region.

In conclusion, the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido necessitate a coordinated and urgent response from authorities in both Comoros and Mayotte. The declaration of national mourning underscores the gravity of the situation, while the destruction of infrastructure and substantial population needs amplify the challenges faced during this recovery period. With ongoing efforts from France and local officials to provide aid, it remains crucial to continue monitoring the situation as humanitarian responses evolve.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com