Mayotte reels from Cyclone Chido’s impact: 31 dead, thousands homeless

The death toll from Hurricane Chido on the island of Mayotte has risen to 31, with thousands affected by the strongest tropical cyclone to hit the region in 90 years.

The storm, which struck the French-annexed island on December 14, unleashed heavy rains, winds reaching 250 km/h (140 mph), and widespread devastation, Caliber.Az reports via French media.

At least 15,000 households were left without power, and earlier reports indicated 1,700 injuries.

Mayotte, located between Madagascar and Mozambique, is France's poorest overseas territory, home to an estimated 320,000 people and as many as 200,000 undocumented migrants from nearby Comoros.

France colonised Mayotte in 1843 and annexed the whole archipelago, including Comoros, in 1904.

In a 1974 referendum, 95 percent backed separation but 63 percent on Mayotte voted to stay French. Grande Comore, Anjouan and Moheli declared independence in 1975. Mayotte is still ruled from Paris.

Many residents, particularly in the densely packed tin-roofed informal settlements, faced catastrophic losses as the storm flattened homes and caused landslides. Officials fear the true extent of the casualties, especially among undocumented migrants, may never be known as many avoided storm shelters due to fear of deportation.

Estelle Youssouffa, a French parliamentary deputy representing Mayotte, said undocumented migrants were among the storm's primary victims, highlighting their vulnerability and reluctance to seek help.

French Interior and Overseas Territories Minister Bruno Retailleau has taken charge of the disaster response, overseeing rescue efforts and the delivery of medical supplies. He announced the deployment of 400 additional gendarmes to the island, supplementing the 1,600 officers already on site. During his visit, Retailleau noted the absence of looting amid the crisis.

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit the island on December 19 to declare a national period of mourning and support recovery efforts.

The broader region of southern Africa, already grappling with severe drought affecting 27 million people, now faces added hardship from Cyclone Chido's impact, compounding food insecurity and displacement across affected areas.

By Tamilla Hasanova