Authorities in Mayotte are struggling to contain hunger, disease, and lawlessness after Cyclone Chido struck on Saturday, 14 December. The cyclone, one of the most powerful in the island’s history, brought winds exceeding 200kph, flattening neighborhoods and severing power and communication lines.
The official death toll stands at 22, with over 1,400 people injured, according to Mayotte Hospital. However, Mayor Ambdilwahedou Soumaila of Mamoudzou fears the number could reach hundreds or thousands due to undocumented migrants. A nurse at Mamoudzou Hospital described the situation as “apocalyptic,” telling BFM TV, “It’s a disaster, there’s nothing left.”
Climate Change Made Cyclone Chido Worse
French weather service Meteo France labeled Cyclone Chido the deadliest storm to hit Mayotte in over 90 years. A study by Imperial College London revealed that climate change intensified the storm’s winds, escalating it from Category 3 to Category 4.
“Climate change increased Chido’s wind speeds by about 11kph, making storms like this 40% more likely,” said Dr. Nathan Sparks from Imperial College London. Hot sea temperatures, fueled by climate change, made Chido’s rapid intensification over 50 times more likely.
Dr. Friederike Otto added, “Victims of poverty have become victims of climate change. Unfortunately, Africa suffers the worst despite contributing the least emissions.” If global temperatures rise by 2.6°C, cyclones of Chido’s strength could become 26% more likely by 2100.
France’s Response Sparks Political Tensions
President Emmanuel Macron promised to visit Mayotte, but the crisis has deepened France’s ongoing political troubles. Newly appointed Prime Minister François Bayrou faced criticism for attending a crisis meeting via video instead of visiting in person. Bayrou defended his absence, saying he was focused on forming a government.
Acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau praised the early warning system but noted many undocumented migrants avoided shelters out of fear of arrest. Left-wing politicians blamed the government for neglecting Mayotte, accusing France of failing to prepare the territory for climate-linked extreme weather. Socialist Party chairman Olivier Faure criticized Retailleau on social media, fueling political tension.
