The aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte on December 14, has left the French Indian Ocean territory grappling with devastation and loss. The latest reports indicate a grim death toll of 39 individuals, with France's interior ministry confirming over 4,000 injuries, including at least 124 serious cases.
The cyclone has been described as the worst to hit Mayotte in nearly nine decades. The island's prefect shared the harrowing statistics and noted, "The work of identifying the victims of the cyclone continues, in coordination with local officials and associations." This reflects the local government’s struggle to come to terms with the scale of the disaster.
Emergency response efforts have quickly followed, with at least 34 operations launched to search for the missing. Drones are being utilized to aid these search and rescue missions, bringing hope amid uncertainty. To facilitate medical care, authorities set up a field hospital equipped with maternity wards and operating theaters. This facility, located at a stadium in eastern Mamoudzou, aims to manage 100 consultations and 30 hospitalizations each day.
Despite these efforts, residents face significant challenges as relief workers strive to restore basic services. Colossal damage has interrupted access to water, electricity, and communication networks, leading to increased distress. To combat the water crisis, authorities have begun distributing approximately 100,000 liters of water daily to those affected.
Gasoline distribution has also been managed more effectively. Restrictions were previously harsh, allowing only 30 liters per car at service stations, but these limits have been lifted as recovery efforts ramp up. Now individuals can refill one jerrycan, aiding transportation of necessary supplies.
An air bridge has been established between Mayotte, Reunion, and mainland France to support the delivery of relief. Reports indicate this bridge is capable of moving over 100 tons of equipment per day, significantly bolstering response efforts on the ground.
The tragic events surrounding Cyclone Chido not only highlight the immediate human toll but also underlie the infrastructure vulnerabilities present on the island. Ongoing assessments of damages and continued rescue operations are just the beginning of what will surely be a long and arduous recovery process for the inhabitants of Mayotte.
Community spirit remains strong as efforts to rebuild commence. The pervasive devastation has catalyzed local and national entities to prioritize assistance and swift recovery. While Mayotte, described as France’s poorest department, navigates these trying times, solidarity will remain key.
