Cyclone Chido devastated Mayotte on December 14, causing severe destruction and loss of life, especially in the shantytowns. Local officials fear a higher death toll as the storm’s aftermath is assessed. Reports indicate extensive damage to housing, infrastructure, and the environment, necessitating ongoing emergency responses.
Cyclone Chido has caused widespread destruction in the island archipelago of Mayotte, particularly affecting the Grande-Terre island. Early on Saturday morning, December 14, the cyclone’s eye crossed north of the island, resulting in severe damage. According to Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, the mayor of Mamoudzou, two individuals lost their lives in the Kawéni shantytown when furniture collapsed on them in their poorly constructed homes. Local officials are concerned that the death toll could significantly increase as more information becomes available.
François-Xavier Bieuville, the Prefect of Mayotte, reported that “many Mahorais have lost everything,” emphasizing the catastrophic impact of the storm. In his evening press release, he announced that a red alert would remain in effect due to ongoing risks from heavy rainfall and strong winds. Destruction was particularly evident in Mamoudzou, where the town’s mayor noted that entire shantytowns were “swept away like crumbs.”
In Mayotte, which is recognized as France’s poorest department, a substantial proportion of the population resides in tin huts, accounting for about one-third of the housing. Wind speeds exceeded 220 km/h, leading to significant structural damages, including roofs being ripped off and windows shattered in more durable concrete buildings. Furthermore, the storm uprooted innumerable trees, complicating transportation and access throughout the region.
Cyclone Chido represents a significant natural disaster for Mayotte, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean that is a French overseas department. Known for its socioeconomic challenges, Mayotte is particularly vulnerable to tropical cyclones, which are not uncommon in the region. The impact of such weather events can be devastating, especially in communities where housing is often substandard. The government’s response, local infrastructure, and the health and safety of residents are put to the test following these calamities. The aftermath typically involves assessing the damage, coordinating relief efforts, and rebuilding communities.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has severely impacted Mayotte, resulting in fatalities, extensive property loss, and the destruction of entire neighborhoods. The local government has issued continued alerts due to potential further risks, and the full extent of the human toll and damage remains to be assessed. This disaster underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Mayotte’s populations to extreme weather events and highlights the need for effective disaster management strategies.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
