Following Cyclone Chido's destruction in Mayotte, the French government's assessment indicates a confirmed death toll of 35, contrary to earlier estimates of hundreds or thousands. As recovery progresses, local officials face challenges in obtaining accurate casualty figures due to the region's instability and significant undocumented population.
French PM Confirms Limited Casualties from Cyclone Chido in Mayotte
French PM Confirms Limited Casualties from Cyclone Chido in Mayotte
Prime Minister François Bayrou asserts that the death toll from Cyclone Chido, which devastated Mayotte, is significantly lower than initially feared, while ongoing recovery efforts are underway.
In the wake of Cyclone Chido's devastating impact on Mayotte, Prime Minister François Bayrou has emphasized that the death toll is in the "dozens" rather than the "thousands" initially feared. Speaking to BFMTV, Bayrou reassured that the higher figures circulating were overly exaggerated and not supported by the on-ground realities observed since the cyclone struck on December 14. The confirmed death count currently stands at 35.
Local prefect François-Xavier Bieuville had previously expressed concerns that the death toll could reach several hundred or even thousands due to the severe damage wrought by the cyclone, which had winds exceeding 260 km/h (160 mph). However, Bieuville has since defended his initial estimate, suggesting that he had merely been under pressure to assess the situation without sufficient information.
The difficulties in confirming the total number of casualties stem from the cyclone's destruction of accessible infrastructure, compounded by the requirement under Islamic practice to bury the deceased within 24 hours. Furthermore, the exact population of Mayotte remains unclear, with estimates indicating between 320,000 official residents and potentially an additional 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented migrants.
Despite the tragic loss of life and the destruction of shantytowns, which comprise a significant part of the territory's housing, areas of Mayotte are seeing the restoration of essential services. Water supply has been reestablished in key locations, and other basic needs are being addressed with improved access to fuel.
President Emmanuel Macron has made appearances in the affected area, where he faced criticism from locals regarding the pace and scale of recovery aid. In solidarity, France declared a national day of mourning to honor the victims of this catastrophic event.
As Cyclone Chido continues to be felt beyond Mayotte, having moved to mainland Africa where it has claimed additional lives, recovery and assessment efforts on the island remain a priority.
Local prefect François-Xavier Bieuville had previously expressed concerns that the death toll could reach several hundred or even thousands due to the severe damage wrought by the cyclone, which had winds exceeding 260 km/h (160 mph). However, Bieuville has since defended his initial estimate, suggesting that he had merely been under pressure to assess the situation without sufficient information.
The difficulties in confirming the total number of casualties stem from the cyclone's destruction of accessible infrastructure, compounded by the requirement under Islamic practice to bury the deceased within 24 hours. Furthermore, the exact population of Mayotte remains unclear, with estimates indicating between 320,000 official residents and potentially an additional 100,000 to 200,000 undocumented migrants.
Despite the tragic loss of life and the destruction of shantytowns, which comprise a significant part of the territory's housing, areas of Mayotte are seeing the restoration of essential services. Water supply has been reestablished in key locations, and other basic needs are being addressed with improved access to fuel.
President Emmanuel Macron has made appearances in the affected area, where he faced criticism from locals regarding the pace and scale of recovery aid. In solidarity, France declared a national day of mourning to honor the victims of this catastrophic event.
As Cyclone Chido continues to be felt beyond Mayotte, having moved to mainland Africa where it has claimed additional lives, recovery and assessment efforts on the island remain a priority.
