Cyclone Chido has unleashed devastating impacts on Mayotte and northern Mozambique.
Resulting in at least 11 deaths, Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte with catastrophic outcomes before affecting the eastern coast of Africa, NPR reported.
On Saturday, Mayotte faced the severe force of Cyclone Chido, a Category 4 storm that produced winds surpassing 220 kph (136 mph). This has led to extensive damage throughout the territory, including critical infrastructure.
Key facilities such as Mayotte's main hospital and the airport were seriously damaged or destroyed. The prefect of Mayotte stated, "It was the worst cyclone to hit Mayotte in 90 years," highlighting the unprecedented nature of the event.
The French Interior Ministry acknowledged challenges in obtaining a complete count of casualties due to the cyclone's massive impact. Nonetheless, it is confirmed that nine individuals are critically injured, with a total of 246 others suffering injuries in Mayotte alone.
Responding to the crisis, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, after an emergency meeting, voiced his concern about the possible high death toll. He noted, "There were fears that the death toll in Mayotte will be high." In a similar vein, French Prime Minister François Bayrou commented on the condition of Mayotte's infrastructure, indicating extensive damage to public facilities.
In reaction to the situation, 1,600 police and gendarmerie officers have been deployed in Mayotte to aid in relief efforts and to prevent incidents of looting. To bolster these efforts, another group of 140 rescuers was scheduled to arrive in Mayotte on Sunday.
Military resources, including aircraft and ships, have been utilized to deliver emergency supplies to Mayotte, supporting the overwhelmed local response capabilities. French President Emmanuel Macron is actively monitoring the evolving situation, ensuring that the government's response is orchestrated efficiently.
Pope Francis also stepped forward, offering prayers for those affected by the cyclone, showing international solidarity in the face of this disaster.
The cyclone's reach extended beyond Mayotte, hitting northern Mozambique's provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. There, UNICEF's spokesperson in Mozambique, Guy Taylor highlighted the dire situation. He said:
Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services. While we are doing everything we can, additional support is urgently needed.
The cyclone season in this region typically lasts from December to March, bringing recurring threats to these areas. Historically, cyclones have caused tremendous casualties and destruction in southern Africa, a trend exacerbated by climate change. This has worsened the intensity of cyclones, disproportionately affecting poorer countries.
The ongoing relief efforts in Mayotte and Mozambique are a race against time, as teams work to address the immediate impacts of Cyclone Chido while bracing for potential further disturbances during a perilous cyclone season.
Furthermore, the damage to Mayotte and the broader implications for eastern Africa underscore the urgent need for sustained international attention and support.
