Devastation in Mayotte After Cyclone Chido: A Humanitarian Crisis Emerges

Cyclone Chido has devastated Mayotte, with at least 11 reported fatalities and extensive damage to infrastructure. Over 15,000 homes are without electricity, and hospitals are overwhelmed with injured individuals. International aid is being mobilized to assist the affected population, but conditions on the ground pose significant challenges to recovery efforts.

The French overseas territory of Mayotte is reeling from the devastation of Cyclone Chido, with fears mounting over a potentially high death toll. The French Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, reported at least 11 fatalities, while preliminary figures from local authorities suggested that 14 lives may have been lost. Challenges remain in obtaining an accurate count of the deceased and injured, with ongoing assessments revealing nine individuals critically injured in local hospitals and 246 additional injuries reported.

Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte on the southeastern coast of Africa, causing unprecedented damage, described as the worst cyclone to hit the territory in 90 years. With sustained winds exceeding 226 kilometers per hour, the cyclone obliterated numerous shantytowns and led to widespread infrastructure damage, including downed electricity poles and disrupted telecommunications. Immediate response efforts are complicated by the destruction of key facilities, including Pamandzi airport, which sustained major damage, impeding rescue and recovery operations.

In summary, Cyclone Chido has left Mayotte in a state of emergency, with authorities grappling with significant casualties and severe damage to critical infrastructure. The international community, including UNICEF, has mobilized resources to assist with recovery efforts as the full extent of the disaster unfolds. This devastating event reflects the increasing intensity of storms attributed to changing climatic conditions, urging a reassessment of disaster preparedness measures in vulnerable regions.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr