Cyclone Chido, the strongest storm in nearly 100 years, hit Mayotte, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean. This powerful cyclone brought winds over 200 kph (124 mph) and caused widespread destruction. Many homes, government buildings, and even a hospital were damaged. Local officials estimate that hundreds or even thousands of people may have died.
Mayor Francois-Xavier Bieuville said that the situation is indeed tragic. A resident named Mohamed Ishmael described Mayotte as looking like a place hit by a nuclear war, as entire neighborhoods vanished. The cyclone also moved to northern Mozambique, where damage and effects are still unknown.
Rescue efforts were complicated because internet and phone services were damaged. There were reports of destroyed homes and capsized police boats onshore. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his sadness and support for the people of Mayotte, saying many victims had lost everything, including their lives.
Finding the precise death count is difficult, especially since many families quickly bury their loved ones according to Muslim customs. This disaster is a big challenge for Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, who just took office. The French government is sending help from Reunion island to assist the affected people.
Mayotte, which is far from Paris, is poorer than most parts of France. It has struggled with crime and unrest for many years. Many people from nearby Comoros try to enter Mayotte for a better life in France. Unfortunately, about 100,000 undocumented migrants live in Mayotte, and most residents live below the poverty line. Earlier this year, a water shortage increased tensions among the local population.
In 1843, France took control of Mayotte, and by 1974, most of the islands wanted independence. However, a majority in Mayotte chose to stay French, while other islands declared independence in 1975. Today, Mayotte remains ruled from Paris.
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