Cyclone Chido, which struck France’s Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte on Saturday, has left devastating destruction, and the death toll is feared to rise to several hundred. The storm brought wind speeds of over 225 km/h (140 mph), flattening entire communities.
Local officials initially reported 11 deaths, but François-Xavier Bieuville, the island’s prefect, warned that the final death toll could be “several hundred” or possibly “a few thousand” once all damage is assessed.
In response to the disaster, French President Emmanuel Macron pledged support, dispatching 250 rescue workers to assist with the recovery efforts. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau confirmed that “all makeshift homes have been completely destroyed,” and he expressed concern over the heavy casualties.
The cyclone’s impact on Mayotte has been severe. With a population of around 300,000, many residents live in poorly constructed homes, and tens of thousands are now homeless. Power, water, and internet services are down, and the island’s Pamandzi airport sustained major damage. Despite this, emergency response operations are ongoing, with France sending military planes to bring in supplies and personnel.
Emergency services on the island have been hampered, with some responders unable to reach affected areas due to the devastation. Communication is also limited, as mobile networks have been knocked out, further complicating rescue efforts.
The cyclone, one of the most powerful to hit Mayotte in decades, intensified after it passed over the island, causing damage in the coastal city of Pemba, Mozambique. Winds and flooding have also affected parts of Malawi and Zimbabwe, and further heavy rain is expected.
Mayotte is experiencing a humanitarian crisis, and officials are working tirelessly to provide aid as the full extent of the damage unfolds.
