Cyclone Chido has devastated Mayotte, leading to at least 11 deaths and numerous injuries, with reports indicating it is one of the worst cyclones to strike the territory in 90 years. The storm’s aftermath poses risks in Mozambique as well, impacting millions.
Cyclone Chido’s recent devastation in Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 11 lives, as reported by France’s Interior Ministry. The full extent of casualties remains uncertain due to ongoing rescue and recovery efforts. Currently, a local hospital has confirmed nine patients are in critical condition, and a total of 246 injuries have been reported. The cyclone made landfall on Saturday, creating what local officials describe as the most severe storm experienced in the region in the past 90 years. The cyclone has since moved on to Mozambique, where approximately 2.5 million people are at risk in the northern provinces.
Cyclones are powerful tropical storms capable of inflicting significant damage to coastal regions, often leading to loss of life and extensive property destruction. The Indian Ocean has experienced various cyclonic disturbances, significantly affecting islands and coastal nations, such as Mayotte, Comoros, and Madagascar. As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of such storms, regions like Mayotte remain vulnerable, highlighting the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and response systems to mitigate future impacts during extreme weather events.
The consequences of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte underscore the perilous nature of tropical cyclones and the urgent necessity for effective disaster response mechanisms. The current death toll may rise, amplifying the tragedy for affected families and communities. As the cyclone continues to endanger regions in Mozambique, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against natural disasters in vulnerable territories, necessitating international cooperation and support.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
