Hurricane Chido Devastates Mayotte: Health Minister Reports Severe Damage
The French archipelago of Mayotte is grappling with a humanitarian crisis following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Chido, which struck on Saturday. Health Minister Geneviève Darrieussecq has reported that the local healthcare system is in dire condition, with the main hospital suffering extensive damage. Key departments, including surgery, intensive care, emergency, and maternity wards, have been severely affected, leading to a situation where medical centers are largely inoperative. Despite these challenges, the hospital is still functioning, albeit at a reduced capacity.
Emergency Response and Resources Mobilization
In response to the unfolding crisis, the French government is mobilizing resources to assist the beleaguered healthcare system. Minister Darrieussecq announced that approximately 100 healthcare professionals from the French health reserve will be dispatched to Mayotte to bolster medical staff. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a field hospital and send massive shipments of medical supplies to support the ongoing efforts. The immediate priority is to manage the influx of new patients and provide care for those with chronic illnesses, with initial evacuations to Reunion Island already underway.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts Amidst Humanitarian Crisis
As rescue operations continue, the situation in Mayotte remains critical. Authorities are working tirelessly to locate survivors amidst the rubble of destroyed shanty towns, where water and food supplies are dwindling. The government fears that the death toll could reach several hundred as the full extent of the hurricane's devastation becomes clearer. President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to convene a meeting today at the inter-ministerial crisis center to assess the situation and coordinate further response efforts.
