On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the tropical cyclone Chido swept across Mayotte, a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean, with devastating force. Winds exceeding 200 km/h and torrential rains wreaked havoc on the island, marking one of the most powerful cyclones to hit Mayotte in over 90 years. For Kenyans living in France or those interested in French territories, this event is a stark reminder of Mayotte’s vulnerability to extreme weather and its significance as France’s closest territory to East Africa.
Where is Mayotte?
Mayotte, part of the Comoros archipelago, is located in the Mozambique Channel, just 1,500 kilometers off Kenya’s southeastern coast. As a French overseas department, Mayotte holds an important position both geographically and culturally. Though less known to many Kenyans, it serves as the nearest point of French territory to East Africa, making it an intriguing place for travelers, workers, and expatriates interested in a connection between France and the region.
What Happened During Cyclone Chido?
Cyclone Chido made landfall on the island around 11 a.m. local time, hitting the northern part of Grande-Terre, Mayotte’s main island. The storm’s eye passed through Bandraboua before exiting toward Acoua on the northwest coast. Petite-Terre, the smaller island, and central regions of Grande-Terre also experienced the full brunt of the cyclone.
Wind gusts reached unprecedented speeds, with reports of 226 km/h recorded in Pamandzi before data systems were disrupted. In some areas, gusts are estimated to have approached 250 km/h, particularly in the cyclone’s eye wall, where winds are strongest. For nearly five hours, winds exceeded 100 km/h, peaking beyond 200 km/h for approximately 45 minutes, a testament to Chido’s intensity and speed.
Heavy Rain and Dangerous Seas
Alongside the destructive winds, Mayotte experienced intense rainfall, with 176.4 mm recorded in Vahibé, located in the highlands of Mamoudzou. However, cyclonic conditions disrupted weather stations, preventing full data collection during the storm’s peak.
The seas surrounding Mayotte also turned deadly. Waves averaged 5.3 meters, with maximum heights reaching 9.3 meters outside the island’s protective lagoon. Coastal regions faced marine flooding, further compounding the destruction.
Support and Recovery Efforts
In the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, French authorities are mobilizing resources to assist the affected population. Emergency services are working tirelessly to restore power, water, and communication systems. For Kenyans with ties to France, this is an opportunity to show solidarity with Mayotte, whether through awareness or support initiatives.
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