Devastation Caused by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte and Mozambique
Cyclone Chido has caused severe devastation in Mayotte and Mozambique, resulting in extensive material damage, over 380,000 people affected, and a rising death toll. Relief organizations are mobilizing to provide urgent assistance amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis, particularly in regions like Mecúfi and Metuge in Mozambique where the destruction is most pronounced.
The aftermath of cyclone Chido, which swept through Madagascar, Mayotte, and Mozambique in mid-December, has resulted in a catastrophic humanitarian crisis in both Mayotte and Mozambique. With winds reaching 243 km/h, the cyclone inflicted severe damage, leaving hundreds of thousands without basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter. In Mozambique alone, the death toll has reached at least 120, while Mayotte reports 35 fatalities and thousands injured. Relief organizations, including Humanity & Inclusion (HI), are mobilizing resources, conducting needs assessments, and preparing to provide crucial support to the affected populations.
In Mayotte, intense winds devastated thousands of homes, particularly in impoverished regions, exacerbating the vulnerability of residents. An eight-year-old boy named Kamar shared his harrowing experience, stating, “My house was completely destroyed. We’ve lost everything. Everyone is sad. We need everything: food, water, clothes… electricity. I hope that everyone is safe.” This sentiment echoes across the island.
The situation in Mozambique is dire, particularly in the Mecúfi and Metuge districts where over 99% of homes have been obliterated. At least 380,000 individuals have been impacted, including a significant number of children. As the rainy season begins, thousands face homelessness and urgent needs for shelter, sanitation, and mental health support. Pauline Jacquart, HI’s Mozambique program director, emphasized the critical situation for displaced families, many of whom have lost everything in mere hours.
Furthermore, emergency personnel like Claire, a nurse in Mayotte, described the extensive destruction and illustrated the desperate need for clean drinking water and food. As recovery efforts begin, the collaboration between humanitarian organizations and local authorities is crucial for providing immediate aid and facilitating long-term recovery processes. HI continues to monitor and manage the crisis to ensure adequate support reaches those who need it most.
Cyclone Chido made landfall on December 14, 2023, impacting Madagascar, Mayotte, the Comoros, and extending into northern Mozambique and southern Malawi. Characterized by exceptionally high winds and torrential downpours, the cyclone has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with widespread destruction of infrastructure and a growing death toll. The cyclone’s aftermath has highlighted the vulnerabilities of many communities, particularly in impoverished areas where homes were not built to withstand such extreme weather events. With the onset of the rainy season, urgent needs for shelter and essential supplies have intensified, prompting humanitarian agencies to respond swiftly in assessing and addressing these needs.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has had a devastating impact on Mayotte and Mozambique, resulting in a significant humanitarian crisis. The destruction of homes and essential infrastructure has left hundreds of thousands in dire need of assistance. With many families facing homelessness and a lack of basic necessities, organizations like HI are stepping in to provide aid and conduct thorough assessments to guide relief efforts. As the situation continues to evolve, coordinated humanitarian assistance remains vital to support the recovery of affected communities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
