By Kwedu News
Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, has been ravaged by Cyclone Chido, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake.
The powerful cyclone, which is currently moving towards the east coast of Africa and expected to lose power as it hits landfall in Southern Africa, has brought widespread devastation, with authorities fearing that hundreds of people may have lost their lives.
The cyclone’s fury has been relentless, with winds reaching speeds of up to 220 kilometres per hour (136 mph), tearing roofs off buildings and uprooting trees.
The island’s infrastructure has been severely damaged, with public facilities such as the prefecture, hospital, and airport reduced to rubble.
“It’s a catastrophe, the island is devastated,” said François-Xavier Bieuville, Mayotte’s prefect, adding that “the cyclone was the most violent and destructive since 1934, with widespread devastation.”
French authorities have confirmed that several people have died, but the true extent of the damage and loss of life is still unknown.
President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly closely monitoring the situation and France has deployed 1,600 police and gendarmerie officers to assist the population and prevent looting.
“We are doing everything we can to support the people of Mayotte,” French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau is reported having said.
“We are working to restore order and provide aid to those affected.”
The cyclone’s impact extends beyond Mayotte, with neighboring countries such as the Comoros, Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe bracing themselves for potential impacts.
Authorities have issued warnings in the respective countries and advised residents to take necessary precautions.
