Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in Mayotte, leading to significant destruction and a rising death toll that officials warn could climb into the hundreds or thousands. This powerful storm, which brought winds surpassing 220 km/h, struck the French Indian Ocean territory last Saturday, marking the most devastating cyclone to hit the region since the 1930s.
In response to the disaster, French authorities have mobilized substantial resources, including over 1,600 police officers and gendarmes to support survivors. Additionally, 250 emergency responders and rescuers are being dispatched from mainland France and the nearby island of Réunion to assist in recovery efforts.
Mayotte, home to approximately 300,000 residents and noted as the poorest territory in the European Union, faces a humanitarian crisis. A significant portion of the population resides in makeshift slums, many of which have been destroyed. Eyewitness accounts describe entire neighborhoods flattened, with considerable damage to key infrastructure, including the main airport, hospital, and essential utilities such as electricity and water. The situation is exacerbated by the limited access for relief efforts, as only military aircraft can currently operate in the area.
Compounding the tragedy, Prefect François-Xavier Bieuville has expressed concern that the presence of undocumented migrants and the local tradition of burying the deceased within 24 hours may complicate accurate casualty counts.
In a gesture of solidarity, Pope Francis, who was visiting Corsica, extended prayers for the victims and encouraged international support, stating, “I am spiritually close to those who have been affected by this tragedy.”
The cyclone’s impact was not limited to Mayotte; it also affected the Comoros Islands and Madagascar and is now threatening Mozambique, particularly the Cabo Delgado province, where UNICEF has reported two million individuals are in urgent need of assistance. Although Chido is weakening, warnings remain in place for Malawi and Zimbabwe, which may face flooding and the need for evacuations.
As the situation unfolds, Mayotte desperately requires humanitarian aid as rescuers continue their efforts to support survivors and evaluate the full extent of the disaster.
This devastating event highlights the importance of global solidarity and support in times of crisis, and there is hope that the international community will respond effectively to aid those impacted by Cyclone Chido.