Cyclone Chido Pummels Mayotte, Leaving Island Nation Battling Widespread Damage and Disruption
Mamoudzou, Mayotte – The island territory of Mayotte, an overseas department of France, is grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which struck earlier this week, leaving a trail of destruction and widespread disruption across the archipelago. Initial assessments reveal significant damage to infrastructure, widespread flooding, and power outages impacting thousands of residents. While official casualty figures are still being compiled, reports suggest injuries and displacement, highlighting the vulnerability of the island nation to extreme weather events.
The cyclone, which made landfall as a strong tropical storm, brought torrential rainfall and sustained winds exceeding 100 km/h (62 mph). The French meteorological agency, Météo-France, reported that Chido was the strongest cyclone to hit Mayotte in several years. Images and videos circulating on social media depict flooded streets, damaged homes, and uprooted trees, showcasing the ferocity of the storm.
"The situation is critical," stated [Name and