**Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte: Death Toll Rises as Rescue Efforts Begin**

**Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mayotte, leading to tragic loss of life and extensive infrastructure damage, with the French government mobilizing emergency support for affected residents.**

Cyclone Chido has ravaged the French territory of Mayotte, marking one of the most severe weather events to impact the islands in nearly a hundred years. Reports indicate that at least two individuals have lost their lives due to the cyclone, which unleashed wind gusts exceeding 225 km/h (140 mph) on Saturday. Local authorities express grave concerns over a potentially higher death toll, as the destruction appears to be widespread.

A regional official noted the total devastation of a shanty town, while French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau echoed fears of a "heavy" casualty count. President Emmanuel Macron extended support to the people of Mayotte, announcing that France would be on hand to assist in the recovery efforts. The government has mobilized 250 firefighters and security personnel, with many already dispatched to the islands.

Mayotte, positioned north-west of Madagascar, comprises one main island, Grand-Terre, and several smaller islands. As the storm approached, reports surfaced of extensive damage, including uprooted trees, destruction of roofs, and downed power lines, leading to a complete communication blackout in some areas. Abdoul Karim Ahmed Allaoui, head of Mayotte's firefighters' union, shared that even emergency responders faced isolation due to the conditions. "There's no mobile phone service and we can't reach people on the island," he said.

Infrastructure designed to withstand earthquakes also suffered severe damage, prompting the evacuation of the emergency services command center, which is now operating at limited capacity. Pamandzi airport, key for access and logistics, experienced significant damage to its control tower, complicating efforts to restore air traffic. Acting French Transport Minister Francois Durovray announced that initial restoration efforts would involve military aircraft, while ships are en route for necessary resupply.

Retailleau expressed his solidarity with the residents in social media statements, assuring that state and local emergency services were fully engaged. The government had initially issued a purple alert, the highest level of emergency warning, along with strict lockdown measures. This has since been adjusted to a red alert, facilitating the mobilization of emergency services.

As Cyclone Chido continues its path, Mozambique on the African mainland is expected to be next in its crosshairs, raising further concerns about the storm’s impact in the region. The aftermath of this disastrous cyclone is still unfolding, and the focus remains on the safety and well-being of those affected.