Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte: At Least 14 Confirmed Dead
On December 14, 2024, Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte, leading to catastrophic damage and a rising death toll. As of December 15, reports indicate at least 14 fatalities, with many more feared trapped under the rubble of destroyed homes. The cyclone, which reached wind speeds exceeding 220 km/h, is the most powerful to hit the region in over 90 years, according to Météo France. The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, confirmed that emergency services are overwhelmed, with hundreds of injuries reported, including nine individuals in critical condition.
The cyclone's impact has left over 15,000 homes without electricity, and communication systems, including emergency lines, have been severely disrupted. The situation is dire, particularly in shantytowns where many residents live in precarious conditions. Local authorities have set up over 70 emergency accommodation centers to shelter those displaced by the storm. Minister of the Interior Bruno Retailleau is expected to visit the island to assess the situation and coordinate relief efforts.
Relief Efforts Underway Amid Ongoing Danger
In response to the devastation, the French government has mobilized significant resources to aid Mayotte. Starting from the week of December 15, 162 civil security personnel and firefighters from mainland France will join the 110 already on the ground. Air and sea operations are being established to deliver medical supplies and personnel to the affected areas. The prefect of the defense zone has emphasized the need for continued assessments of the situation as rescue operations proceed.
Local residents have reported that entire neighborhoods have been razed, with one resident describing the destruction in Kawéni as “everything was washed away.” The cyclone has also impacted infrastructure, with the Pamandzi airport sustaining damage to its control tower, rendering it temporarily inoperable for commercial flights. Authorities have urged the population to remain confined and united during this crisis.
Miss Mayotte's Concern Amidst the Chaos
As the cyclone wreaked havoc, Miss Mayotte, Zaya Toumbou, was participating in the Miss France pageant in Poitiers. Despite being physically distant from her home, she remained connected to the unfolding disaster through her regional delegate. The pageant, which was set to be broadcast live, faced disruptions as the island was left without electricity, making it impossible for many residents to watch or participate in the event. Miss Mayotte expressed her concern for her family and the people of her island, emphasizing the emotional toll of the cyclone's impact on her community.
As Cyclone Chido continues its path towards the African continent, with heavy rains expected in surrounding regions, the focus remains on recovery efforts in Mayotte. The full extent of the cyclone's impact is still being assessed, and authorities are bracing for a potentially heavy human toll as rescue operations continue.
