Cyclone Chido hit Mayotte on December 14, causing extensive damage, particularly in Mamoudzou. With winds surpassing 180 km/h, the cyclone devastated buildings and infrastructure, leading to estimates that 70% of residents were significantly impacted. Satellite images reveal over 19,000 buildings and 105 km of roads were damaged or destroyed, raising concerns over potential fatalities in the hundreds.
On December 14, tropical cyclone Chido struck Mayotte in the Indian Ocean, resulting in catastrophic damage that has yet to be fully assessed by the French government. Although the exact human toll remains uncertain, officials express concerns that fatalities may reach into the hundreds. Satellite imagery provided by Maxar, released via Agence France-Presse on December 16, illustrates the extensive destruction inflicted upon buildings and infrastructure across the island.
In the capital, Mamoudzou, the impact was severe, with many structures failing against winds recorded at over 180 km/h and gusts nearing 250 km/h in northern regions. Despite the industrial districts sustaining better structural integrity, they too experienced significant harm. The region’s marina has been entirely devastated, swept away by the powerful storms and resulting sea surges.
The island of Petite-Terre, comprising Dzaoudzi and Pamandzi, was hit first by the cyclone, leading to considerable harm, especially at the port where quays were partially destroyed. Currently, the Interior Ministry estimates that approximately 70% of Mayotte’s population has been “seriously affected” by the cyclone. The European Copernicus program’s emergency response indicates that over 19,000 structures and more than 105 kilometers of roads are either damaged or destroyed, underscoring the hurricane’s widespread impact.
Mayotte, a French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean, is susceptible to severe weather events, including cyclones. Cyclone Chido, which occurred in December 2023, brought unprecedented winds and flooding, leading to widespread destruction. Understanding the geographic and climatic vulnerabilities of Mayotte is essential in evaluating the implications of natural disasters in this region. Efforts to assess the damage and provide relief are ongoing, with local and national government agencies collaborating to address the crisis and support affected communities.
In conclusion, cyclone Chido has wrought significant devastation upon Mayotte, with substantial loss inflicted on infrastructure and human life. The current estimates point to a severe impact on a majority of the population, with extensive damages to buildings and roads. As the situation unfolds, it is critical for the French government and relief organizations to prioritize recovery efforts to assist those affected by this natural disaster.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
