Cyclone Chido Ravages French Mayotte; Death Toll May Reach 1,000

Dec 15, 2024, 05:24 PM

Cyclone Chido has devastated the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, causing significant loss of life and widespread destruction. The cyclone struck the archipelago on December 14-15, bringing winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour (136 mph) and heavy rains. Initial reports indicated at least 14 people were killed and over 250 injured, but local authorities fear the death toll could be several hundred or even approaching 1,000. The Prefect of Mayotte, François-Xavier Bieuville, stated that it would be "extremely difficult" to determine a final count due to the extensive damage, particularly in makeshift housing areas. The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, reported that France's largest slum was "totally devastated" and expressed concern for "hundreds of thousands of victims" in the slums. Mayotte, the poorest French territory, is facing widespread power outages and communication disruptions. The cyclone is the strongest to hit the islands in over 90 years. Emergency services are conducting search and rescue operations amid the destruction. Cyclone Chido has since moved towards Mozambique, making landfall there on Sunday.