Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Death Toll May Reach Thousands
Cyclone Chido has devastated Mayotte, leading to a death toll of several hundred, possibly thousands. At least 11 deaths have been confirmed, with over 250 injuries reported. The cyclone caused significant damage to infrastructure, particularly in impoverished neighborhoods. Rescue operations are underway as the French government mobilizes support for recovery efforts.
Cyclone Chido has inflicted catastrophic damage upon the French territory of Mayotte, resulting in a reported death toll from local officials suggesting it may reach several hundreds, possibly even thousands. Over 11 fatalities have been officially confirmed, with more than 250 individuals injured. The cyclone, which hit on December 14, 2024, has led to widespread destruction, particularly in impoverished neighborhoods, and has severely impacted public infrastructure, including the local airport.
法国政府迅速展开救援行动，派遣军事和人道主义小组前往受灾地区，以提供帮助和物资支持。Mayotte的地区负责人François-Xavier Bieuville描述了该自然灾害造成的巨大损失，并指出，在铁皮小屋和临时结构中，目击到的破坏程度几乎会使死尸数量大幅上升。他指出，“这个数字在目睹贫民窟的照片时是不可信的，因为实际民众死亡人数更高。”
As Cyclone Chido made landfall with wind speeds surpassing 220 kilometers per hour (136 mph), its effect was profound, leading to the destruction of entire communities comprised of makeshift housing. Residents disclosed harrowing accounts of destruction, describing uprooted trees and overturned boats. President Emmanuel Macron and other officials have expressed their condolences and are mobilizing additional support for the island’s recovery.
The French territory of Mayotte, located in the Indian Ocean, has recently suffered from Cyclone Chido, the most severe cyclone to strike the region in almost a century. This territory is notable for being France’s poorest and is home to over 300,000 residents living in precarious conditions. The cyclone’s impact has been exacerbated by the territory’s economic vulnerabilities. The active cyclone season in the southern hemisphere brings heightened risks of future disasters, underscoring the immediate need for international aid and improved infrastructure to mitigate such occurrences.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has caused unprecedented destruction in Mayotte, with local officials estimating the death toll to be in the hundreds, if not thousands. The French government has initiated extensive rescue and recovery operations, highlighting the urgent need for assistance in this impoverished region. As recovery efforts continue, the long-term implications of climate change and its role in exacerbating such natural disasters remain pressing issues for vulnerable populations.
Original Source: apnews.com
