Cyclone Chido Devastates Mayotte, Affects Comoros and Madagascar

Cyclone Chido has caused at least 11 fatalities in Mayotte, with over 220 km/h winds damaging homes and infrastructure. Internet outages have hindered residents’ ability to seek help. The cyclone affected Comoros and Madagascar, leading to school and airport closures, and severe flooding reported in Madagascar.

Cyclone Chido has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 11 lives as reported by France’s interior ministry, with officials in Mayotte indicating that the toll may continue to rise. The cyclone unleashed wind speeds exceeding 220 km/h, ripping roofs from homes and demolishing numerous buildings across Mayotte. In the chaotic aftermath, many residents have sustained injuries and faced widespread internet outages, complicating their ability to reach out for assistance. The prefect of Mayotte characterized Chido as the most catastrophic cyclone to affect the region in nearly a century.

While Mayotte experienced the most severe impact, nearby islands such as the Comoros and Madagascar were not spared from the cyclone’s effects. In the Comoros, authorities proactively closed schools and airports before the cyclone made landfall on Saturday, aiming to ensure safety. Concurrently, severe flooding in Madagascar has been reported as a direct consequence of the storm, indicating the widespread impact of Cyclone Chido across the southwestern Indian Ocean region.

Cyclone Chido, one of the recent severe weather events affecting the southwestern Indian Ocean, has drawn attention due to its devastating impact on Mayotte and neighboring islands. The cyclone is characterized by high wind speeds and heavy rainfall, conditions that often lead to significant destruction in coastal territories. The affected regions, particularly the French territory of Mayotte, have been preparing for such natural disasters, but the extent of Chido has overwhelmed local infrastructures and emergency services.

In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has wrought significant devastation in Mayotte, resulting in loss of life, injuries, and extensive property damage. The storm’s effects have also extended to the Comoros and Madagascar, highlighting the cyclone’s broad impact. As authorities assess the situation, there is an urgent need to provide support to affected residents and prepare for potential further casualties. The severity of this cyclone underscores the critical importance of disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.

Original Source: newscentral.africa