Comoros Declares National Mourning After Devastating Cyclone Chido Hits Mayotte
Comoros has declared a week of national mourning after Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc in Mayotte, where winds reached over 220 km/h. Authorities fear hundreds may have died, particularly among vulnerable populations in shantytowns. As rescue operations commence, crucial aid is needed amidst dire conditions, including shortages of food and clean water.
On Monday, the Comoros government declared a week of national mourning following the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido in neighboring Mayotte. President Azali Assoumani announced the mourning period, which is set to continue until Sunday, reflecting the significant loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. Winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour impacted Mayotte, leading to concerns about potential deaths, particularly among the vulnerable populations residing in shantytowns.
Mayotte, which has a complex history with the Comoros following its choice to remain French in the 1970s, is home to a large number of migrants from Comoros. An estimated 100,000 to 200,000 individuals may reside in Mayotte irregularly, often in makeshift housing that has been particularly susceptible to the cyclone’s impact. “All the shantytowns are flattened, which suggests a considerable number of victims,” a source close to Mayotte’s authorities indicated, highlighting the catastrophic consequences of this natural disaster.
As rescue efforts began, France deployed ships and military aircraft to deliver essential supplies and aid to Mayotte. Unfortunately, widespread destruction has hindered progress, with downed power lines and blocked roads delaying aid access. The situation remains dire, with Mayotte’s Senator Salama Ramia reporting severe shortages of food, potable water, and electricity for those taking refuge in shelters. “There’s no water, no electricity. Hunger is starting to rise. It’s urgent that aid arrives, especially when you see children, babies, to whom we have nothing concrete to offer,” Senator Ramia conveyed.
This cyclone has been categorized as a four on the five-point scale, marking it as the most severe storm to strike Mayotte in nearly a century. Authorities are estimating death tolls that could reach several hundred, possibly even thousands, although exact counts may remain elusive due to cultural practices surrounding burial. Rescue teams are making strides with support from France, including assistance from Reunion, which is aiding in the logistical efforts to provide relief to the affected region.
Cyclone Chido poses one of the most catastrophic challenges faced by Mayotte in its recent history. This disaster highlights the vulnerabilities inherent in shantytowns, where many undocumented Comorans reside. The cyclone’s magnitude and destruction reveal the shortcomings in disaster preparedness and response in such densely populated and economically disadvantaged areas. The complex migratory dynamics between Comoros and Mayotte further complicate the assessment of casualties, as the population is significantly comprised of undocumented migrants who may be unaccounted for amidst the chaos. Such humanitarian crises necessitate urgent international support and effective relief strategies.
The declaration of national mourning by Comoros reflects the gravity of the situation following Cyclone Chido’s devastation in Mayotte. With significant loss of life anticipated and widespread destruction reported across the island, the urgency for humanitarian assistance remains critical. Ongoing rescue operations, bolstered by French military support, are vital to address the immediate needs of affected populations, while the long-term implications of this disaster call for enhanced disaster preparedness measures to protect vulnerable communities in the future.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
