Cyclone Chido has killed at least 11 people and injured many more, primarily affecting Mayotte, which experienced wind speeds exceeding 220 km/h. The cyclone caused significant property damage, internet outages hampering communication, and also impacted neighboring islands like the Comoros and Madagascar, leading to airport and school closures.
Cyclone Chido has resulted in a devastating impact across the Indian Ocean, leading to the tragic loss of at least 11 lives, as confirmed by the French interior ministry. With wind speeds surpassing 220 km/h, it wreaked havoc in Mayotte, where the local authorities anticipate that the death toll might rise. The cyclone stripped metal roofs from residential structures and obliterated numerous small buildings throughout this French territory, injuring many as a result of the storm’s ferocity. Another complication arose as eyewitnesses reported widespread internet outages, hampering the efforts of residents to communicate with emergency services and seek assistance.
Cyclone Chido has been declared the most destructive cyclone to strike Mayotte in nearly one hundred years, as described by the territory’s prefect. While Mayotte suffered the most severe consequences, neighboring islands, such as the Comoros and Madagascar, reported adverse effects as well. In the Comoros, authorities took proactive measures by closing airports and schools just prior to the cyclone’s arrival on Saturday. Madagascar faced significant challenges as residents encountered severe flooding, further exacerbated by the cyclone’s rainfall and storm surge.
In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has emerged as a catastrophic event for Mayotte and surrounding regions, with forecasts indicating potential increases in the death toll. As local authorities grapple with the extensive damage and disruptions to communication infrastructure, neighboring islands like the Comoros and Madagascar are also contending with the cyclone’s aftermath. The community’s resilience will be tested in the recovery efforts following such widespread destruction.
Original Source: newscentral.africa