Cyclone Chido Strikes Mayotte, Killing 11 and Causing Severe Damage
Kathmandu, Dec 15: Cyclone Chido, the most powerful storm to hit the Indian Ocean island of Mayotte in the past century, has claimed at least 11 lives, according to the French news agency AFP.
The cyclone, which brought wind speeds of up to 225 kilometers per hour, has caused widespread destruction in the French-controlled island territory. Authorities fear the death toll may rise further as rescue operations continue.
The storm has severely disrupted electricity services and caused a shortage of clean drinking water in the region. French President Emmanuel Macron assured that his administration stands with the people of Mayotte during this crisis.
French officials confirmed that 250 firefighters and security personnel have been dispatched to the island, with some already on-site. French Interior Minister Bruno Rittal highlighted the extensive damage, stating that all temporary hillside homes have been completely destroyed due to heavy water flow.
“Mayotte has not faced a storm like this since 1934,” Rittal said, calling the situation a “disaster” and emphasizing the precarious conditions of affected areas.
