French Overseas Territory Mayotte Island was hit by the most severe hurricane in nearly a century, causing significant casualties and property damage. French emergency ships and military planes have been dispatched to the island for rescue efforts. Local officials estimate that hundreds, possibly even thousands, have died in this disaster.
According to the French meteorological agency, last Saturday (December 14th), Tropical Cyclone “Chido” struck the island group with wind speeds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour (136 miles per hour), classified as a Category 4 cyclone. This is the strongest hurricane to hit Mayotte Island in over ninety years.
Located in the Indian Ocean near the African continent, Mayotte Island has a population of over 300,000 and is the poorest island in France and the poorest region in the European Union. Videos and photos taken on-site show that after the storm, many metal shacks and makeshift huts were flattened, numerous trees were uprooted, and the power system, roads, and airport suffered extensive damage, severely hindering rescue operations.
On Monday (16th), French President Macron announced on social media that following the “tragic event that has shocked us all”, he will declare a national day of mourning and plans to visit Mayotte Island in the “coming days” to assess the extent of the disaster.
As of Monday night, the local health department confirmed that 21 people had died in hospitals, with another 45 in critical condition. However, Mayotte’s Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville stated the day before (15th) that due to the customs of burying the deceased within 24 hours, mainly practiced by the Muslim population, and the reluctance of around 100,000 undocumented residents to seek help, it is difficult to accurately determine the death toll. He estimated that the actual number of fatalities “will definitely reach hundreds, perhaps even a thousand, or even thousands.”
In addition to French authorities, European Commission President von der Leyen has pledged assistance, and the French overseas territory of Reunion Island, located on the other side of Madagascar, is providing medical aid via air and sea transport.