In brief
Cyclone Chido, one of the most severe storms to hit northern Mozambique and Mayotte, has resulted in a rising death toll and widespread destruction. Authorities estimate at least 34 deaths in Mozambique, while the situation in Mayotte remains critical amidst fears of hundreds more casualties. The aftermath continues to challenge emergency response efforts.
At least 34 people have died in Mozambique following Cyclone Chido, deemed "one of the most intense storms ever recorded" by the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management (INGD). The cyclone made landfall in Mozambique on Sunday after causing havoc in Mayotte, a French overseas region. Rescue efforts in Mayotte face severe challenges due to extensive infrastructure damage, raising fears that the death toll there could reach into the hundreds.Most confirmed deaths in Mozambique were caused by falling objects, including debris from destroyed buildings, according to INGD spokesperson Paulo Tomas. Chido's winds reached about 260 km/h (160 mph), resulting in more than 34,000 Mozambican families losing their homes. Furthermore, essential services like electricity and communications are disrupted, leaving around 200,000 customers without power.As Chido struck Cabo Delgado and moved inward through Niassa and Nampula provinces, it may exacerbate the existing vulnerabilities in the region, which has already faced attacks from Islamist militants. A three-year-old girl was reported among the victims. In Mayotte, the situation is dire, with initial reports suggesting at least 21 fatalities. However, the real number may be much higher, with extensive destruction to buildings hindering accurate assessments, as over 90% of structures are damaged. Tommaso Della Longa from the International Federation of Red Cross highlighted the alarming number of missing persons, including over 200 Red Cross volunteers, adding further urgency to the crisis.Much of the devastation stems from the cyclone's unprecedented strength, prompting French authorities to impose a night-time curfew on Mayotte to prevent looting. Concerns have escalated regarding the safety of the undocumented immigrant population, who may have avoided shelters fearing deportation, casting doubt on the completeness of casualty figures.Last year, Mozambique suffered from Cyclone Freddy, the longest-lived storm on record, which also claimed more than 180 lives. With Cyclone Chido sparking new tragedies, governments and humanitarian organizations scramble to respond amid worsening conditions.
