In brief
With fatalities rising and infrastructure destroyed, the French territory grapples with a humanitarian crisis in the wake of the storm.
Landing on Petite-Terre, Mayotte's smaller island, the destruction from Cyclone Chido is overwhelmingly evident. The landscape, once adorned with lush coconut trees, now presents a barren sight, rendered black and lifeless after the storm roared through the islands on Saturday, unleashing 220km/h winds. The airport's signal tower stands in ruins, while the nearby hotel—one of the few establishments offering Wi-Fi and electricity—bears a battered roof and shattered windows.The aftermath of Cyclone Chido has left at least 31 confirmed dead, as reported by French officials, with many more individuals unaccounted for and fears mounting that the death toll could climb significantly. A state of exceptional natural disaster has been proclaimed for this impoverished French territory, marred by informal settlements and challenging living conditions. French President Emmanuel Macron toured the larger island, Grande-Terre, on Thursday, bringing food and health aid to the beleaguered citizens. However, despite his presence, criticism mounted over his government's historical neglect towards Mayotte. Ongoing political strife and contentious immigration debates in France further complicate the situation, as some contend that assistance could attract more migrants to the island, exacerbating existing challenges.As heavy rains poured in upon Macron's arrival, filling damaged structures with water, residents continued their struggle for survival. The state of emergency declared allows for expedited aid efforts, aiming to restore essential services and devise a sustainable recovery strategy for Mayotte. Emergency teams have made swift efforts to deliver food and clean water, clear debris, and search for missing residents.Health officials have raised alarms over potential infectious disease outbreaks given the water shortages and rationing of supplies. Affected residents are awaiting the restoration of damaged water facilities, while half of Mayotte remains without power. A newly instituted curfew aims to curb the potential for looting, as survivors navigate the devastation left behind by Cyclone Chido—the most potent gale to strike the archipelago in nearly a century. The storm's destructive path led it from Mayotte to Mozambique, where at least 58 additional fatalities were reported.
