As Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte, at least eleven lives were lost, with fears of further casualties. The storm, classified as the most severe to hit the archipelago in nearly a hundred years, demolished homes and infrastructure, leaving thousands displaced. French President Emmanuel Macron promised support to the affected, while emergency personnel were deployed to address the devastating aftermath.
Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Leaving at Least 11 Dead
Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Leaving at Least 11 Dead
Tragedy strikes Mayotte as Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc with winds exceeding 225 km/h, prompting urgent response from French authorities.
The cyclone made landfall on Saturday, causing intense winds and destruction across the islands. Local authorities confirmed 11 fatalities and reported over 240 injuries based on hospital statistics, with some sources suggesting the death toll could reach at least 14. The cyclone impacted Mayotte, which consists of a major island and several smaller ones, known for its population residing in vulnerable structures.
Reports indicated that the cyclone knocked out electricity, water, and internet services, crippling communication for emergency responders. A military transport plane with supplies and emergency staff was dispatched to support relief efforts as the territory grappled with extensive damage, including at Pamandzi airport.
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau highlighted the catastrophic impact, noting that makeshift homes in which many residents live were completely destroyed. In response to the crisis, French Prime Minister François Bayrou convened an emergency meeting with other officials in Paris, monitoring the evolving situation closely. Initially placed under a severe weather alert, emergency services were mobilized to provide assistance where possible amidst ongoing challenges.
As Chido moved across the Mozambique Channel, the cyclone continued to pose threats to nearby areas, resulting in heavy rainfall and strong winds affecting cities like Pemba, prompting ongoing warnings for additional regions, including Malawi and Zimbabwe, as flooding and adverse weather conditions persist.
Reports indicated that the cyclone knocked out electricity, water, and internet services, crippling communication for emergency responders. A military transport plane with supplies and emergency staff was dispatched to support relief efforts as the territory grappled with extensive damage, including at Pamandzi airport.
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau highlighted the catastrophic impact, noting that makeshift homes in which many residents live were completely destroyed. In response to the crisis, French Prime Minister François Bayrou convened an emergency meeting with other officials in Paris, monitoring the evolving situation closely. Initially placed under a severe weather alert, emergency services were mobilized to provide assistance where possible amidst ongoing challenges.
As Chido moved across the Mozambique Channel, the cyclone continued to pose threats to nearby areas, resulting in heavy rainfall and strong winds affecting cities like Pemba, prompting ongoing warnings for additional regions, including Malawi and Zimbabwe, as flooding and adverse weather conditions persist.
