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Cyclone Chido Strikes Mayotte, Causing At Least 14 Deaths, Winds at 226 km/h, and Catastrophic Damage

Dec 14, 2024, 02:21 PM

Cyclone Chido has struck the French overseas territory of Mayotte, leading to catastrophic destruction and loss of life. The cyclone, classified as a Category 4 storm, made landfall with maximum sustained winds reaching 130 mph (210 km/h) and gusts recorded at 226 km/h at Dzaoudzi-Pamandzi International Airport. Authorities had issued a red alert, followed by a violet alert, the highest level of warning, as the cyclone approached. As a result, the entire population of approximately 320,000 residents was ordered to seek shelter, and many areas experienced power outages. Initial reports indicate at least 14 fatalities and over 250 injuries, with significant damage to homes and infrastructure. The cyclone is now moving towards Mozambique, where it is expected to make landfall soon. In response to the crisis, a ministerial meeting led by French Interior Minister François Bayrou was convened to coordinate relief efforts. The situation in Mayotte has been described as catastrophic, with local officials expressing concerns about the extent of the damage and the urgent need for humanitarian aid.