On Saturday, December 14, France’s Mayotte got hit with the century’s most powerful cyclone, Cyclone Chido. The Cyclone struck the French Indian archipelago of Mayotte, creating havoc in the region. According to the statement from a senior local French, the death toll of the people is expected to reach the count of thousands. Cyclone Chido is said to be the worst in the 90 years that has hit Mayotte.

Cyclone Chido: The Deadliest

Mayotte is located northwest of Madagascar. It is an archipelago comprised of one main island, Grand-Terre, and several smaller ones. Almost entire region was targeted when Cyclone Chido hit, resulting in wind gusts of more than 225km/h (140mph). On Saturday, the local media reported the death of 11 people and approx. 246 were injured. However, the later reports cite the death toll could be in hundreds or even thousands. All the electricity, water, and services are down in the region. 

Paris administration has sent a military transport plane packed with emergency supplies and helpers. Even before the cyclone strike, there were reports of fallen trees, torn off roofs of buildings, and power lines being shut down. The head of Mayotte’s firefighters’ union, Abdoul Karim Ahmed Allaoui said that emergency responders are broke down and there’s no communication service.

Destruction Caused by Cyclone Chido

Wrecked Infrastructure

The cyclone has caused extensive destruction, destroying hospitals and schools. Though rescue operations are carried out but are hindered by the destruction of airports and power lines. France is constantly sending additional soldiers, firefighters, and medical staff to support rescue operations.

Impact on Residents

The cyclone has also leveled shantytowns, where a large portion of Mayotte’s population, including many undocumented residents, lived. The situation is further complicated by Muslim burial customs, which require swift burials, making it challenging to confirm the final death toll. Former nurse Ousseni Balahachi highlighted that some individuals avoided getting help amid the fears of deportation.

Climate Factor Behind Cyclone Chido

Researchers pointed that the cyclone’s extensive strength is the because of the climate change. They further cited the unusual warm temperatures of Indian Ocean. The US has also issued a warning that 1.7 million people are at risk of potential flooding in the affected areas. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced plans to travel to Mayotte with additional personnel and equipment.

A first aid plane has already arrived with medical supplies and staff. Pope Francis, during his visit to Corsica, called for prayers for the people of Mayotte. Any further updates are yet to come.

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