Cyclone Chido has left destruction and casualties in Mayotte and Mozambique, with at least 22 dead and thousands injured. The storm, the worst in nearly a century for the region, has devastated infrastructure and prompted a national emergency response. Mozambique reported significant flooding and further casualties, as recovery efforts are underway amid ongoing political tensions.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused significant devastation across the southwestern Indian Ocean, particularly affecting the French territory of Mayotte and northeastern Mozambique. As of Tuesday morning, the death toll in Mayotte has reached 22, with injuries amounting to 1,400. Authorities anticipate the fatalities may increase significantly, making this the most damaging storm in the region in nearly a century. In response, the French government has declared a curfew and mobilized military and emergency personnel to assist with recovery efforts.
Cyclone Chido originated in the Indian Ocean from December 7 to 8, making landfall in Agalega and subsequently intensifying before striking Mayotte and Mozambique. Mayotte, which suffers from high poverty levels, experienced catastrophic damage, with nearly all infrastructure in the northern island destroyed, according to local officials. Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius noted that the storm impacted critical infrastructure, including a newly built airport.
Upon reaching Mozambique, Cyclone Chido resulted in at least 34 casualties and left over 35,000 homes partially or completely damaged. The United Nations has indicated that the storm will weaken as it moves inland towards Zimbabwe. Additionally, Mozambique is currently facing a political crisis with upcoming protests postponed due to the devastation wrought by the cyclone.
The occurrence of extreme weather events such as Tropical Cyclone Chido exemplifies the growing concerns regarding climate change and its impact on vulnerable regions. The southwestern Indian Ocean, including Mayotte, Mauritius, and Mozambique, is prone to severe storms, especially during certain seasons. Mayotte, being one of France’s overseas departments, experiences significant dependency on governmental aid for infrastructure and recovery efforts. On the other hand, Mozambique has a recent history of political turmoil, which complicates disaster response and recovery, especially following the recent elections that have been contested by opposition parties.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has generated unprecedented destruction across multiple regions, notably Mayotte and Mozambique, leaving behind a rising death toll and significant infrastructure damage. Both the French and Mozambican governments are mobilizing resources to address this crisis. Additionally, the incident highlights the pressing need for effective disaster preparedness in the face of increasingly severe climatic events. As recovery efforts continue, the focus will also be on supporting displaced populations and restoring essential services in the affected areas.
Original Source: www.bnnbloomberg.ca
