Cyclone Chido has severely impacted the French island of Mayotte, leading to “catastrophic” damage as declared by officials. The cyclone has resulted in extensive infrastructure destruction, with widespread power outages and service disruptions. Emergency personnel are deployed to manage the crisis, and the French government is closely monitoring the situation while providing necessary support to affected residents.
Cyclone Chido has caused “catastrophic” devastation on the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte, according to Prefect François-Xavier Bieuville, who reported that the alert level has been reduced to red from violet, though the cyclone’s impact had not yet ceased. Bieuville urged the people to remain “confined” and “united” as a significant number of residents face the loss of their homes and livelihoods, with the cyclone deemed the most destructive to affect the region in nearly a century.
Former Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau communicated via social media that the damage assessment has commenced and local emergency services are fully operational, deploying 110 personnel initially, with more reinforcements expected. The Ministry of the Interior confirmed measures have been taken to maintain public order amidst ongoing evaluations of critical infrastructure, while emphasizing the necessity for the local population to adhere to official guidelines during the red alert.
Measurements from Météo France indicated wind speeds exceeding 226 kilometers per hour at Pamandzi airport. The cyclone, after making landfall in northern Mayotte, was moving towards Mozambique with hazardous winds and intense rainfall left in its wake. Additionally, over 15,000 households have lost power, creating communication difficulties for emergency responders, with even earthquake-resistant structures failing to withstand the storm’s force. The primary airport was closed, and road traffic was halted.
France’s Prime Minister François Bayrou mentioned his continuous monitoring of the situation, while President Emmanuel Macron expressed solidarity with the residents, stating that “the whole country is at your side.” He acknowledged the urgency of the situation and announced plans for immediate support in the days following the cyclone’s passage.
The island of Mayotte has been significantly affected by Cyclone Chido, which has brought unprecedented destruction not seen in 90 years. Located in the Indian Ocean, Mayotte is a French territory and its geographic positioning makes it susceptible to extreme weather events such as cyclones. The recent cyclone has prompted a mobilization of emergency services and highlighted the challenges associated with disaster response in remote island communities, particularly regarding communication and infrastructure integrity under severe conditions.
In conclusion, the aftermath of Cyclone Chido has left Mayotte grappling with extensive damage and disruption, necessitating a coordinated response from emergency services and the French government. With significant portions of the population currently without power and communication lines down, the safety and well-being of the residents remain a top priority. The government’s commitment to support those affected is evident as they work to restore order and normalcy in the region.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
