Cyclone Chido Leaves Mayotte Devastated, Thousands Feared Dead

The French island faces catastrophic destruction, severe humanitarian needs, and a looming health crisis after its worst cyclone in nearly a century.

Cyclone Chido, the most powerful storm to hit Mayotte in 90 years, has caused widespread destruction, with officials estimating that 70% of the population has been gravely affected.
Authorities have confirmed 22 deaths and 1,400 injuries so far, but they fear the final death toll could reach several thousand due to the extensive damage in densely populated areas and bidonvilles.
Critical shortages of water, food, and medical supplies are raising fears of a health crisis as the island's only hospital operates in a damaged state, with emergency evacuations already underway for critical patients.
French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a national mourning period and plans to visit the island in the coming days, as 1,500 personnel, including military and medical teams, are deployed to support relief efforts.
International aid, including from the United States and the European Union, has been pledged, while rescue teams continue searching for survivors and delivering essential supplies to the hardest-hit areas.