Comoros Declares National Mourning Following Devastating Cyclone Chido

The Comoros has declared a national week of mourning following the devastation of Cyclone Chido, a Category 4 storm, which impacted both the Comoros and Mayotte. The President announced this period of mourning in light of the severe loss of life and substantial damage to infrastructure, particularly affecting shantytowns. The storm, deemed the worst in 90 years, struck with winds exceeding 220 km/h, and recovery efforts are now a priority for both territories.

The Comoros archipelago has officially designated a week of national mourning in response to the devastating impacts of Cyclone Chido, a Category 4 storm that struck on December 16. President Azali Assoumani announced that this period of grief would extend until the following Sunday, reflecting the deep sorrow felt across the nation, particularly after the cyclone inflicted significant destruction, primarily on the French overseas department of Mayotte. Reports indicate that hundreds may have perished, particularly among Comoran nationals residing in vulnerable slum conditions in Mayotte.

Cyclone Chido, recorded as the most severe storm to impact Mayotte in nearly a century, brought winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour (137 miles per hour) and caused catastrophic disruptions to infrastructure and loss of life. Given the geographical proximity—only 70 kilometers (43 miles) separates Comoros from Mayotte—many Comorans have historically migrated to Mayotte, heightening the emotional toll on families and communities. International assistance and recovery efforts are now urgently needed to aid those affected by this natural disaster.

The Comoros, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, has a close relationship with Mayotte, a French overseas department. This historical connection, dating back to the independence of Comoros in the 1970s, has resulted in many Comorans living and working in Mayotte. The recent Cyclone Chido has further exacerbated vulnerabilities in both territories, showcasing the need for resilience and support mechanisms for those facing the devastating effects of natural disasters. The storm’s classification as a Category 4 hurricane reflects its severity and the urgent need for humanitarian aid.

In conclusion, the Cyclone Chido disaster has prompted significant grief and response efforts in the Comoros, highlighting the intertwined fates of the islands in the face of extreme weather events. The national mourning declared by President Azali Assoumani serves as a powerful acknowledgment of the tragedy and loss experienced by many families, particularly in Mayotte, where the impacts of the cyclone were profoundly felt. It is imperative that local and international support is mobilized to assist in recovery efforts moving forward.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr