Concerns Grow Over High Death Toll as Cyclone Strikes Mayotte

Mayotte, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, has been devastated by Cyclone Chido to an extent not seen in almost a century. There have been at least 11 confirmed deaths, and as the island copes with the fallout, there are worries that the number could rise. When the hurricane hit shore on Saturday, it unleashed powerful gusts of around 225 km/h (140 mph), leaving behind a path of extensive destruction.

Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, offered the people of Mayotte his solidarity and promised to help them during this difficult moment. To help with rescue efforts, French authorities have sent out 250 firefighters and security guards, many of whom have already reached the location. France's Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau highlighted the scope of the damage, saying that "all makeshift homes have been entirely demolished," but warned that the death toll may be much higher.

At least 11 people have died, according to local reports, while more than 200 more have been injured. With at least 14 confirmed dead, AFP has reported an even higher death toll. Power, water, and internet services have all been interrupted, severely affecting the island's infrastructure. Shelters have been lost for tens of thousands of residents living in sheet metal homes.

The island's primary hub for both domestic and international travel, Pamandzi Airport, has suffered significant damage, especially to its control tower, making air travel all but impossible. According to French Transport Minister François Durovray, ships are en route to aid in resupply efforts, while military planes are already en route to deliver aid and assist in restoring the island's supply chains.

Across the island, there were reports of downed power lines, uprooted trees, and roofs being torn off buildings before the storm's full force. The head of the firemen' union in Mayotte, Abdul Karim Ahmed Allaoui, painted a bleak picture, pointing out that even emergency personnel were trapped because of the lack of phone connectivity. Some buildings failed to survive the cyclone's fury even though they were built to resist earthquakes. The island's command center for emergency services has been evacuated and is now functioning at a reduced level. 

The people of Mayotte were subjected to a strict lockdown and placed under the highest alert level. Later, this alert was lowered to enable first responders to go out and help people in need.

The day before, newly appointed Prime Minister François Bayrou called the cyclone "exceptional severity." He called an emergency meeting with government officials in Paris to coordinate the reaction and promised to update the country on developments. 

Since 1934, Mayotte has not experienced such destruction as Cyclone Chido has. It is currently predicted that the hurricane will make its way to the African mainland's Mozambique, leaving a path of devastation and uncertainty in its wake.