In the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, the strongest storm to strike Mayotte in nearly a century, France has swiftly mobilized emergency aid to support the island's residents. Emergency workers have been racing to restore basic services and provide relief to those affected by the devastating cyclone, which brought winds exceeding 200 kph (124 mph).
French authorities reported that maritime and aerial operations were underway as late as Sunday night to transport much-needed supplies and equipment to the cyclone-stricken territory. \"The first intervention planes arrive in Mayotte to provide emergency aid in the face of the damage caused by the cyclone. The State is fully mobilized to support the inhabitants of Mayotte in this ordeal,\" stated Nicolas Daragon, France's Minister for Everyday Security, on X.
The full extent of the casualties and physical damage remains unclear, with estimates from Mayotte's prefect, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, suggesting the death toll could reach several thousands. The destruction has been widespread, with images showing hundreds of makeshift houses wrecked, coconut trees piercing through building roofs, and hospital corridors flooded.
To facilitate the relief efforts, authorities have established an air bridge between Mayotte and Reunion Island, another French overseas territory. Sebastien Lecornu, the French Minister of the Armed Forces, announced the deployment of three structures capable of accommodating 150 people each, with an additional structure on the way. Military rations and generators are also being distributed to support the affected population.
Mayotte, located nearly 8,000 kilometers from Paris, faces ongoing challenges beyond natural disasters. As a major destination for undocumented immigrants from the nearby Comoros, the island struggles with poverty, gang violence, and social unrest. The recent cyclone adds to the long-standing difficulties faced by its residents.
Historically, France has maintained control over Mayotte since its colonization in 1843. Unlike the other islands in the Comoros archipelago, which voted for independence in a 1974 referendum, Mayotte chose to remain under French administration, leading to its current status as a French overseas territory.
Reference(s):
French military aid starts to arrive in cyclone-battered Mayotte
cgtn.com
