Devastation from Cyclone Chido in Mayotte and Mozambique: A Humanitarian Crisis

Cyclone Chido has caused extensive destruction in Mayotte and Mozambique, leaving hundreds of thousands in crisis. With reported fatalities of at least 120 in Mozambique and severe damage in Mayotte, humanitarian organizations rush to provide essential aid and assess ongoing needs. Individuals, including children, recount their losses and the urgent need for assistance amidst the devastation.

Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe devastation across Mayotte and Mozambique, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. Following its path from Madagascar to northern Mozambique, this cyclone generated winds surpassing 240 km/h, accompanied by torrential rainfall, resulting in widespread destruction of infrastructure and homes. By December 23, reports confirmed at least 120 fatalities in Mozambique and 35 in Mayotte, with thousands more injured and left without shelter.

In Mayotte, the storm specifically targeted the Labattoir district, where young survivors like Kamar, age 8, detailed the traumatic loss of their homes and possessions, stating, “My house was completely destroyed. We’ve lost everything… We need everything: food, water, clothes… electricity.”

Mozambique faces catastrophic consequences, particularly in the Mecúfi and Metuge districts, where nearly all homes were obliterated. Humanitarian organizations, such as Humanity and Inclusion (HI), are conducting assessments to determine immediate needs for shelter, food, and mental health support for those affected. A prominent figure from HI, Pauline Jacquart, highlighted that 99% of houses in Mecúfi were ruined, rendering 16,000 families homeless as the rainy season commenced.

As the emergency response continues, individuals like Claire, an emergency nurse in Mayotte, expressed despair at the scene: “It was as if everything had died. There were no trees left, or just trunks ravaged by the wind, and the houses were all on the ground…” The emphasis remains on restoring basic needs such as drinking water, food, and effective waste management in the aftermath of this disaster, as HI prepares to deliver critical assistance.

Cyclone Chido, which struck in mid-December, has devastated regions of Mayotte and Mozambique. Following its passage, the humanitarian situation rapidly deteriorated, necessitating immediate intervention by humanitarian organizations. This cyclone is notable for its unprecedented wind speeds and the significant rainfall it brought, which overwhelmed local infrastructure and resulted in a tragic loss of life and property. With the rainy season complicating recovery efforts, many families face dire living conditions.

The repercussions of Cyclone Chido are far-reaching, affecting both Mayotte and Mozambique profoundly. As fatalities rise and thousands remain displaced, urgent humanitarian assistance is critical. Organizations like HI are mobilizing to address emergency needs and support the recovery process, but challenges remain, particularly in securing shelter and mental health support for those traumatized by the cyclone’s devastation.

Original Source: reliefweb.int