Devastation in Mayotte Following Cyclone Chido: A Significant Natural Disaster
Tropical cyclone Chido struck Mayotte on December 14, causing extensive destruction. Initial reports suggest hundreds of potential deaths as over 70% of the population is seriously affected. Satellite images reveal significant damage to buildings and road infrastructure, particularly in Mamoudzou and Petite-Terre, with estimates indicating thousands of structures lost.
On December 14, tropical cyclone Chido wreaked havoc in Mayotte, a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean. Four days post-disaster, authorities have yet to determine the full extent of casualties, although there are fears that the death toll may reach hundreds. Satellite imagery provided by Maxar through Agence France-Presse reveals alarming levels of destruction in the region, particularly in the capital, Mamoudzou, where buildings suffered severe damage due to winds exceeding 180 km/h and gusts nearing 250 km/h. Although industrial zones fared better, significant devastation was still noted.
The cyclone’s impact on key infrastructures was devastating. The marina along Route Nationale No. 2 was entirely obliterated, while the smaller island of Petite-Terre experienced considerable destruction, notably in the towns of Dzaoudzi and Pamandzi, which were the initial targets of the cyclone. The Interior Ministry reports that approximately 70% of the island’s population has been profoundly affected, with estimates indicating that over 19,000 buildings and 105 km of roads have been either damaged or entirely destroyed as assessed by the European Copernicus program’s emergency services.
The cyclone Chido struck Mayotte, an isolated island territory of France situated in the Indian Ocean, on December 14. This event is a reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters attributed to climate change. Previous storms have had severe repercussions on the infrastructure and daily lives of residents in the region, many of whom reside in vulnerable housing. The cyclone’s aftermath is critical, prompting urgent assessments and responses from both local authorities and international organizations.
In conclusion, the aftermath of cyclone Chido in Mayotte has resulted in extensive damage and significant humanitarian concerns. With a considerable portion of the population affected and infrastructures compromised, authorities are facing challenges in recovery and aid distribution. The images of destruction paint a stark reality that underscores the need for immediate assistance and a long-term strategy to bolster resilience against future tropical storms.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
