Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Threatens East African Coast #

Deadly Storm Causes Extensive Damage to French Territory #

Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc on the French territory of Mayotte in the Indian Ocean, resulting in multiple fatalities and widespread destruction. The storm, with winds exceeding 220 kph (136 mph), has left the island seemingly devastated.

The cyclone ripped metal roofs off houses and severely damaged or destroyed public facilities, including the prefecture, hospital, and airport. Many residents, particularly those living in precarious shacks in slum areas, have faced serious risks.

Authorities have deployed 1,600 police and gendarmerie officers to assist the population and prevent potential looting. Rescue teams from France and nearby Reunion have been mobilized, with additional reinforcements on the way.

Mayotte’s airport suffered significant damage, especially to its control tower. Air traffic will initially be restricted to military aircraft, while ships are being used to provide supplies.

The island remains under red alert, with residents instructed to stay confined in solid shelters. Thousands of homes are without power, and many structures have been blown away or damaged.

Chido is now moving towards the east coast of Africa, threatening Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. Mozambique’s disaster agency warns that 2.5 million people might be affected in the northern provinces.

This cyclone is part of a pattern of increasingly severe storms in the region, attributed by some studies to climate change. Previous cyclones like Idai and Freddy have caused significant loss of life and widespread destruction in recent years.

The aftermath of such storms often brings additional risks, including flooding, landslides, and outbreaks of waterborne diseases like cholera. Poor countries in southern Africa, which contribute minimally to climate change, are left to deal with large-scale humanitarian crises as a result of these intensifying weather events.