Comoros Declares Mourning Following Devastating Cyclone Chido in Mayotte
Comoros has declared a week of national mourning due to Cyclone Chido’s devastating effects in Mayotte, where casualties are feared to be in the hundreds. The cyclone, the worst in 90 years, has left many in dire conditions without basic necessities. France has mobilized aid and personnel to assist with the disaster’s response.
In response to the devastation wrought by Cyclone Chido, Comoros has declared a week of national mourning starting on Monday. The cyclone struck neighboring Mayotte, leading to fears of several hundred casualties, predominantly among the impoverished and densely populated shantytowns, which have suffered “enormous” damage. President Azali Assoumani announced that the mourning period would continue until Sunday, acknowledging the significant loss of life and infrastructure in the islands. Cyclone Chido, classified as a category four storm, unleashed winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour on Saturday, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
The close geographical proximity of Comoros and Mayotte—the two territories separated by merely 70 kilometers—complicates the humanitarian implications, particularly as many Comorans are known to migrate unlawfully to Mayotte. Reports suggest that an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 people may reside in Mayotte due to irregular immigration, yet fear of detection has prevented many undocumented migrants from seeking shelter prior to the cyclone’s onslaught. According to a local source, the devastation in the shantytown areas hints at a likely high fatality toll.
As rescue efforts commence, France has mobilized military assets to deliver aid and personnel to Mayotte swiftly. Military vehicles are being utilized to remove fallen trees to facilitate access for emergency responders. The powerful cyclone has disrupted essential utilities, cutting off electricity to substantial regions and impairing communication infrastructure. As a direct result, concerns are mounting regarding access to potable water.
Senator Salama Ramia of Mayotte emphasized the dire conditions faced by those seeking refuge in shelters, stating, “There’s no water, no electricity. Hunger is starting to rise. It’s urgent that aid arrives, especially when you see children, babies, to whom we have nothing concrete to offer.” The aftermath of the cyclone poses a significant humanitarian crisis, particularly given the socio-economic challenges faced by the island. Prefect François-Xavier Bieuville indicated the initial death toll could range from several hundred and potentially into the thousands, complicating efforts to account for all casualties given cultural practices surrounding burials.
The devastating impact of Cyclone Chido has prompted action in the region, notably leading Comoros to declare a period of mourning. Mayotte has faced catastrophic losses due to the cyclone, marking one of the most severe weather events experienced in the territory in the last 90 years. The geographical and socio-economic ties between Comoros and Mayotte exacerbate the disaster’s ramifications, with high levels of irregular migration and significant populations living in precarious conditions, contributing to the potential for a high casualty rate and humanitarian crisis. Authorities on Mayotte have expressed concern over the accessibility of basic necessities, underscoring the vulnerability of the impoverished population in the aftermath of the cyclone. France’s engagement through military support illustrates the urgency of the situation, as the nation seeks to address immediate relief needs while facilitating recovery efforts.
In summary, the tragic consequences of Cyclone Chido on Mayotte have instigated a national mourning period in Comoros, reflecting the profound loss of life and widespread destruction. The challenges posed by irregular migration further complicate the humanitarian response, amplifying the need for timely aid as severe conditions persist. As authorities work to assess the disaster’s toll, immediate relief efforts are essential to alleviate the suffering experienced by the populations most affected by this catastrophic event.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
