At least 11 people have died as Cyclone Chido, the worst in 90 years, wreaked havoc across Mayotte and nearby islands, leaving thousands without power and immense destruction in its wake.

Cyclone Chido has unleashed catastrophic damage on Mayotte and the Comoros, with at least 11 confirmed deaths and 246 injuries reported amid extensive destruction of homes and infrastructure. As the strongest cyclone to strike Mayotte in nearly a century, it has led to fears of a rising death toll and the long-term impact on the local population of over 300,000. With authorities deploying 1,600 officers for disaster response and recovery, the cyclone underscores the urgent need for regional support as thousands remain without power and critical services are severely disrupted.

The French Interior Ministry confirmed reports of 9 individuals in critical condition due to the cyclone, highlighting the immediate healthcare emergencies affecting the region. Chido has caused devastating damage in Mayotte, resulting in at least 11 reported deaths and a total of 246 injuries.

Winds generated by the cyclone reached over 136 mph (220 kph), causing significant structural damage. Many homes lost their metal roofs, and extensive debris—including sheets of metal, wood, furniture, and personal belongings—was scattered across the islands. Such destruction not only presents a logistical challenge for the recovery efforts but poses serious safety hazards for residents navigating their devastated neighborhoods.

The main airport in Mayotte faced major damage, complicating rescue and relief operations. The disruption in transport facilities has delayed the arrival of essential supplies and support personnel. As the islands work to restore connectivity, the challenge of meeting the needs of those displaced or affected becomes increasingly critical.

Trees were uprooted and boats overturned or sunk, further complicating the intricacies of the cyclone's aftermath. Various parts of Mayotte have reported significant environmental disruptions, which will likely take time to rectify and could affect local ecosystems. Furthermore, local broadcaster Mayotte la 1ere reported that thousands of homes remained without power, hampering both immediate recovery efforts and the day-to-day lives of the local population.

In reaction to the disaster, French President Emmanuel Macron is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the support from the national government. This assistance is crucial given the ongoing needs for humanitarian aid, infrastructure repairs, and economic recovery for the region.

The cyclone's reach extended beyond Mayotte, also impacting the nearby islands of Comoros and Madagascar. As reported, Comoros faced severe weather before the storm redirected towards the mainland of Africa. Chido's powerful winds and heavy rains are expected to affect 2.5 million people in northern provinces of Mozambique, raising concerns about broader regional implications.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, the government has deployed 1,600 police and gendarmerie officers to assist the affected population. These officers will aid in maintaining order, providing security, and preventing looting as communities navigate the cleanup process and assess damages.

As the cyclone season stretches from December to March in the southeastern Indian Ocean, meteorologists and disaster experts are on high alert for additional storms. The region's vulnerability during this period adds another layer of urgency to recovery efforts.

In the days ahead, local and regional authorities will focus on the immediate needs of the affected population. This includes restoring power, providing medical care, and ensuring that food and water shortages do not lead to further crises. The extent of Cyclone Chido's damage will require a concerted recovery effort that not only focuses on infrastructure but also on the psychological and economic resilience of the communities hit hardest.