A state of exceptional natural disaster has been declared in Mayotte after the territory suffered extensive damage from Cyclone Chido, resulting in at least 31 confirmed deaths and thousands missing. The cyclone hit on Saturday, unleashing wind speeds over 225 km/h (140 mph) and causing unprecedented havoc, particularly affecting shanty towns where many residents lived. This declaration is unprecedented for France, highlighting the gravity of the situation and allowing emergency responses to transcend usual bureaucratic hurdles.
Mayotte Declares Exceptional Natural Disaster Amid Cyclone Chido Devastation
Mayotte Declares Exceptional Natural Disaster Amid Cyclone Chido Devastation
Authorities announce a state of emergency following catastrophic impacts of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte, marking a historic crisis in French territory.
French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to arrive in Mayotte on Thursday, as the government mobilizes resources to address the crisis over a month-long emergency period that could be extended if needed. Minister François-Noël Buffet emphasized the urgent need for swift action, including restoring vital services and establishing a sustainable reconstruction plan. As emergency workers distribute food, water, and clear debris, concerns rise over potential outbreaks of infectious diseases due to the ongoing shortage of clean drinking water. Curfews have been implemented to prevent looting, while numerous areas remain without power.
In addition to the immediate crisis in Mayotte, Cyclone Chido has had severe repercussions on the African mainland, leaving a trail of destruction that claimed at least 45 lives in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi. The chaos of Cyclone Chido, regarded as the worst storm to strike Mayotte in nearly a century, leaves the community grappling with deep losses and the urgent need for assistance.
Rescue operations continue as the full scale of the devastation unfolds.
In addition to the immediate crisis in Mayotte, Cyclone Chido has had severe repercussions on the African mainland, leaving a trail of destruction that claimed at least 45 lives in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi. The chaos of Cyclone Chido, regarded as the worst storm to strike Mayotte in nearly a century, leaves the community grappling with deep losses and the urgent need for assistance.
Rescue operations continue as the full scale of the devastation unfolds.
