France is ramping up its emergency efforts to assist the residents of Mayotte, which has been ravaged by Cyclone Chido, the worst storm to impact the region in nearly a century. The cyclone, which struck on Saturday, prompted swift action from French authorities as the island’s condition worsened, resulting in preliminary reports of fatalities numbering between 14 and several hundred, with fears of potential thousands lost.
Located off the East African coast, Mayotte is home to approximately 320,000 residents, many of whom live in precarious housing conditions. According to reports, the cyclone brought winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour (about 136 miles per hour), causing widespread devastation to informal settlements, particularly the slum areas characterized by makeshift metal huts.
Emergency responders are facing significant challenges as they attempt to assess the full extent of the destruction. François-Xavier Bieuville, the prefect of Mayotte, indicated during local broadcasts, “It will take days and days to determine the human toll,” emphasizing the catastrophic impact on the island’s socio-economic fabric.
The French government is mobilizing not only rescue teams but also medical personnel and supplies, as over 800 additional first responders are expected to arrive from France and Réunion, the nearby French territory. Initial aid flights commenced soon after the storm subsided, with one aircraft landing at the main airport, which has suffered severe damage. Repairs to the airport’s control tower are urgent to restore normal operations for civilian flights.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has been vocal about the need for immediate aid and security, addressing reports of looting taking place amid the chaos. “We need to establish order and prioritize health and safety as recovery efforts are finalized,” he stated during his arrival.
Local authorities highlighted the gravity of the humanitarian crisis; the regional health facility has reported significant operational difficulties, with 70% of its services currently non-functional. Conditions have deteriorated to such an extent, even basic necessities like food and water are reportedly scarce. Senator Salama Ramia described the scene to French public radio FranceInfo, stating, “There are reception centers without food or water since yesterday.” These conditions reflect the overall fragility of Mayotte, where around 80% of the population lives below the poverty line, facing economic hardship exacerbated by the cyclone.
Notably, many residents of Mayotte are undocumented migrants from the Comoros Islands seeking to secure French nationality for their children through the right of soil principle, complicate relief efforts as they often avoid contact with authorities.
Meanwhile, as parts of Madagascar and Comoros also contend with Cyclone Chido, officials predict millions could be affected across the region. The cyclone has already claimed lives in Mozambique, with three initial fatalities reported; this continues to raise alarm for governmental agencies and international aid organizations tasked with coordinating relief.
Analysts note this storm could fit within a troubling pattern, as Mayotte experiences severe cyclones more frequently due to shifting weather patterns associated with climate change. The rich ecosystem and biodiversity of the Indian Ocean region are increasingly vulnerable.
Past cyclones, such as Idai and Freddy, have caused considerable destruction and loss of life, raising questions about preparedness and climate resilience. The situation on Mayotte serves as yet another reminder of the urgent need for improved infrastructure, community resilience strategies, and international solidarity.
Emmanuel Macron’s government is preparing for increased scrutiny over its disaster response capabilities as the first meeting of a crisis cell will convene later today. While French authorities focus their efforts on restoring order and infrastructure amid this catastrophe, the residents of Mayotte wait anxiously for outside assistance and the prospect of recovery from Cyclone Chido’s relentless aftermath.
