Cyclone Chido has devastated the French island of Mayotte, with authorities fearing the loss of hundreds of lives after the storm battered the region with winds of 226 km/h (140 mph). The northern coast took the brunt of the storm, with towering waves up to eight metres crashing into the shore.
Mayotte faces catastrophe
The full scale of the damage is still being assessed, but the island’s Prefect, François-Xavier Bieuville, has described the situation as catastrophic. Many areas remain flooded, and search-and-rescue teams are racing against time to locate survivors. Local officials warn the death toll could rise sharply in the coming days.
Mayotte’s fragile infrastructure has made rescue operations difficult, but efforts are underway to deliver food, water, and medical aid to those affected.
Macron pledges support for Mayotte
President Emmanuel Macron expressed his deep concern for those impacted by the cyclone. “My thoughts are with the people of Mayotte, who have endured these dreadful hours,” Macron said in a statement. “The whole country stands with you. Reinforcements are already on the ground, and more are on the way.”
The French government has mobilised rescue teams and emergency supplies, with Macron promising further assistance to help the island recover.
The road to recovery
As Mayotte begins to assess the damage, the immediate focus is on rescuing survivors and providing relief. It is clear that rebuilding will be a long and challenging process, but with ongoing support, the island will begin to heal.
