Tropical Cyclone Chido has devastated Mayotte, leading to extensive property damage but no immediate casualties reported. The cyclone is now heading toward Mozambique, where millions may be affected. The region remains on high alert as recovery efforts commence and neighboring countries prepare for potential impacts.
The French overseas territory of Mayotte has experienced severe damage due to Tropical Cyclone Chido, which is now moving toward the eastern coastline of Africa. The storm unleashed winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour, leading to the destruction of roofs and infrastructure on the islands, which house a population of approximately 300,000. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of casualties, yet the extent of property damage is significant.
Mayotte Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville characterized the cyclone as “the most violent and destructive cyclone since 1934,” indicating a profound humanitarian impact on the island. In light of the disaster, the highest alert level has been lifted to facilitate rescue operations. Nonetheless, the general public remains under a red alert with instructions to stay indoors to ensure safety during ongoing recovery efforts.
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau acknowledged the gravity of the situation, reporting extensive damage across Mayotte. Essential services are currently mobilized, with rescue teams dispatched from France and the nearby island of Reunion. Local reports reveal thousands of homes without power, as several structures have been dismantled by the cyclone’s powerful winds.
The nation of Comoros, positioned north of Mayotte, is also grappling with the storm’s impact, with authorities launching the highest level of alerts in some regions. Concerns are in place for a group of fishermen missing since their departure on Monday, prompting stringent regulations for maritime activities and the closure of critical infrastructure.
Forecasters anticipate Chido’s trajectory to lead toward Mozambique on the African mainland, with an alarming projection that as many as 2.5 million people could be affected in its northern regions. Neighboring countries, including Malawi and Zimbabwe, have initiated preparedness measures, anticipating severe flooding and potential evacuations as the cyclone approaches.
Cyclone season in the southeastern Indian Ocean, spanning from December to March, has seen an increase in the intensity of storms, exacerbated by climate change. This has particularly impacted countries in southern Africa, which, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, face significant humanitarian challenges due to such natural disasters. The past few years saw devastating cyclones such as Idai and Freddy causing widespread destruction and loss of life, highlighting the severe implications of climate-induced weather events in vulnerable regions.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused catastrophic damage in Mayotte and is expected to impact the eastern coast of Africa significantly. The region, already familiar with the menace of severe cyclones, is now bracing for a potential humanitarian crisis involving millions. Authorities are mobilizing resources and rescue efforts as they navigate through the challenges posed by this natural disaster and its aftermath.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
