A curfew has been imposed in teh French archipelago of Mayotte following the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido, which has left the region in dire need of supplies and assistance. President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit the area on Thursday.
Three days after the cyclone, which is the most intense to hit Mayotte in 90 years, residents are facing severe shortages of food and water. Local resident Antoy Abdallah expressed concern, stating, “We are running out of water. There are hardly any supplies left in the stores.” Communication remains a challenge, with many unable to reach loved ones, including those in critical health conditions.
Authorities are distributing 100 tons of food to Grande-Terre and 20 tons to Petite-Terre, while three barges are set to facilitate the transport of aid between the islands. The situation is compounded by ongoing power outages and a mobile network that is still 80% down. The death toll has reached 22, with over 1,373 injured, and officials warn that the numbers may rise as access to affected areas remains limited. The Red Cross is also seeking information on 200 missing volunteers in the region.
Mayotte is facing a humanitarian crisis following the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido, which has left approximately 70% of the island’s population severely affected. French interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, who recently visited the region, reported that the destruction is extensive, with many residents displaced and critical infrastructure damaged. In response, President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit Mayotte, and an additional 400 gendarmes will be deployed to assist the existing security forces. As the situation unfolds, authorities are grappling with rising tensions and a lack of mobile communication, while rescue teams continue to search for survivors in the rubble of densely populated areas. The U.S. has also expressed readiness to provide humanitarian aid as calls for solidarity grow both locally and internationally.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. The recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte has led to a meaningful humanitarian crisis. Can you provide an overview of the current situation on the ground?
Expert: Absolutely, the situation in Mayotte is dire. Cyclone Chido, which is reported to be the most intense storm to hit the region in 90 years, has caused extensive damage. over 70% of the population is estimated to be severely affected, facing acute shortages of food and water. As of the latest reports, the death toll stands at 22, with over 1,373 individuals injured, and these numbers may continue to rise as access to certain areas is still restricted due to the destruction and ongoing power outages [1[1[1[1].
Time.news Editor: That’s incredibly concerning. What emergency measures are being implemented to address these urgent needs?
Expert: Authorities have imposed a curfew to maintain order as they deploy aid to the affected regions.They are distributing 100 tons of food to Grande-Terre and 20 tons to Petite-Terre, with additional logistics support from barges to facilitate the transport of supplies between the islands. Though, the mobile network remains largely down, affecting communication and rescue efforts significantly [2[2[2[2]. To aid in this crisis, President Macron is expected to visit the area soon, which could help draw more attention to the humanitarian needs there [3[3[3[3].
Time.news Editor: It’s a complex situation. what long-term implications does this disaster hold for the residents of Mayotte and how can the international community assist?
expert: This disaster not only raises immediate concerns about food and shelter but also has long-term implications for health and community stability. The extensive destruction of infrastructure will require significant rebuilding efforts. The international community can play a crucial role by providing humanitarian aid, supporting rebuilding initiatives, and facilitating access to healthcare for those injured and affected. The U.S. has already signaled its readiness to offer assistance, which shows a growing solidarity during this crisis [1[1[1[1].
Time.news Editor: It’s clear that coordinated efforts will be necessary. What practical advice would you give to those looking to help from afar?
Expert: Those wishing to help should consider donating to established humanitarian organizations working directly in the region, such as the Red Cross, which is actively seeking data about missing individuals along with providing aid [3[3[3[3]. Additionally, spreading awareness about the situation through social media can amplify calls for support and gather more resources for the recovery efforts. Establishing a long-term partnership with local organizations will also be crucial in rebuilding efforts once the immediate crisis has passed.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights; they offer a clearer picture of this tragic situation and highlight how we can all contribute to the relief efforts.