Cyclone Chido, a powerful Category 4 storm, has left a devastating trail of destruction in Mayotte and Mozambique. In Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory, hundreds are confirmed dead, with fears the toll could rise to thousands. Entire settlements have been flattened by winds exceeding 225 km/h (140 mph).

Rescue teams, including reinforcements from France, are working tirelessly to search for survivors. Damaged infrastructure, including downed power lines and blocked roads, is slowing emergency efforts. Many of Mayotte’s 320,000 residents are struggling without basic supplies.

In the capital, Mamoudzou, residents report severe shortages of food, water, and shelter. One resident shared, “We’ve had no water for three days. It’s getting hard to survive.” Another, John Balloz, described the terrifying moment the cyclone hit: “I thought it was the end. The wind was so strong, I screamed for help.”

After devastating Mayotte, Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province on December 15. The storm brought heavy rains, destructive winds, and flash floods, affecting an estimated 1.7 million people in Mozambique. Aid organizations, including UNICEF and the Red Cross, are on the ground providing emergency assistance.

The cyclone is one of the most powerful storms to hit Mayotte in over 90 years, according to Meteo France. Relief efforts continue as both regions struggle to recover from this massive natural disaster.