Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte on December 15, killing 14 people, before impacting Mozambique the next day. The cyclone had winds of 124 mph in Mayotte and 115 mph in Mozambique, leading to significant destruction of homes and infrastructure. The French government is providing emergency assistance, while the situation is under control in Mayotte as recovery efforts begin.
On December 15, Tropical Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc in Southeast Africa, leading to the tragic deaths of 14 individuals in Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, before making landfall in Mozambique the following day. The cyclone recorded sustained winds of 124 mph in Mayotte and 115 mph in Mozambique, categorizing it as a powerful storm akin to a Category 3 hurricane in the Atlantic. Guy Taylor, representing UNICEF in Mozambique, stated that essential infrastructure, including homes, schools, and health facilities, sustained significant damage, necessitating collaboration with government authorities to restore vital services. The cyclone primarily impacted the northern province of Cabo Delgado, close to the city of Pemba.
Following its formation in the Southwest Indian Ocean Basin, Cyclone Chido approached Madagascar before impacting Mayotte, which comprises two islands and supports a population of approximately 320,000 people. The island, located about 500 miles east of Mozambique, is characterized by many residents living in inadequate housing, leading to a notable number of displaced individuals following the cyclone’s passage. Reports indicated that the weather was clearing in Mayotte, yet the devastating effects on the population were evident.
French President Emmanuel Macron assured citizens of Mayotte of the French government’s support, stating, “I am closely following the situation in Mayotte. Mahorais, the whole country is at your side.” The French government promptly dispatched emergency professionals and supplies via military aircraft, with efforts focused on the reopening of Pamandzi airport under controlled conditions. As residents endured a strict lockdown and the highest alert level, they looked to government and humanitarian assistance for recovery.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is a significant weather event that affected Mayotte and Mozambique, illustrating the vulnerabilities of island territories and coastal nations to severe storms. Cyclones in this region can lead to both immediate fatalities and long-term socio-economic impacts, particularly in areas where housing and infrastructure are not resilient to extreme weather. Mayotte, a territory under French administration, is often susceptible to natural disasters, given its demographic and geographic characteristics. The response from France highlights the responsibilities of national governments in assisting overseas territories in times of crisis.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused immense devastation in Mayotte and Mozambique, leading to fatalities and significant infrastructure damage. The government of France has mobilized resources to assist affected citizens, ensuring the provision of essential services is restored. The incident underscores the importance of disaster preparedness and the implications of cyclones on vulnerable populations, emphasizing the need for continued international support and resilience strategies in affected regions.
Original Source: www.upi.com
