Cyclone Chido devastated Mayotte, becoming the deadliest storm in over 90 years, causing at least 22 confirmed deaths and potentially thousands more. Research reveals that climate change intensified the cyclone, increasing its destruction. The aftermath raises significant concerns regarding hunger, disease, and political implications in France as responses are scrutinized. Vulnerable populations suffer most, emphasizing the urgent need for effective climate measures.
On December 14, Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte with devastating consequences, marking the deadliest storm to impact the French overseas territory in over 90 years. The storm’s winds exceeded 200kph, resulting in extensive destruction and leaving many areas without power or communication. Official reports confirm at least 22 fatalities and over 1,400 injuries, while the actual number of casualties could be substantially higher, particularly among undocumented migrants. The aftermath has prompted authorities to combat the imminent threats of hunger, disease, and lawlessness across the island.
Recent research from Imperial College London indicates that human-induced climate change exacerbated Cyclone Chido’s intensity, increasing its wind speed by approximately 11 kph as it approached Mayotte. The likelihood of storms of this severity occurring has risen by 40% compared to pre-industrial times. “Our study confirms climate change has made tropical cyclones like Chido more intense and more destructive,” affirmed Dr. Nathan Sparks, a researcher involved in the study.
High sea temperatures—significantly influenced by climate change—were pivotal in Chido’s rapid intensification, with estimates suggesting that these warm waters are over 50 times more likely due to human activity. “Victims of poverty have become victims of climate change in Mayotte,” stated Dr. Friederike Otto, emphasizing the tragic impact on vulnerable populations that contribute minimally to emissions yet bear the brunt of severe weather conditions.
In light of the disaster, French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to visit Mayotte amidst an already critical political scenario in France. Criticism has arisen regarding the government’s preparedness and response to natural disasters, specifically accusations of neglect towards the overseas territory. Critics, including Socialist Party chairman Olivier Faure, have called for a focused dialogue addressing climate change and the associated risks rather than targeting migrant populations.
European overseas territories are particularly susceptible to the ramifications of climate change, as highlighted by a recent study from Réseau Action Climat. Historically overlooked, these regions face imminent threats, such as rising sea levels, with the potential to render areas uninhabitable within this century. Despite their vulnerabilities, European nations have shown inadequate efforts to safeguard their overseas territories against climate change’s increasingly severe effects.
The topic of Cyclone Chido and its catastrophic impact on Mayotte underscores the broader issue of climate change and its role in enhancing the intensity and frequency of tropical storms. This event has garnered attention due to the significant humanitarian implications for a territory already grappling with socio-economic vulnerabilities, particularly among undocumented migrants. The intersection of climate science and socio-political factors demonstrates the urgent need for integrated responses to climate change—an increasingly critical situation particularly for regions like Mayotte.
Cyclone Chido has starkly illustrated the destructive force of climate change on vulnerable populations, particularly in regions like Mayotte, where inadequate infrastructure and preparedness exacerbate the impact of natural disasters. The disaster has initiated discussions on the urgent need for proactive measures to combat climate change and protect underserved communities that disproportionately suffer from extreme weather events. As larger systemic issues come to light, it is imperative that governments prioritize climate resilience, particularly in their overseas territories.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
