Cyclone Alfred is closing in on Australia, bringing powerful winds, record waves, and heavy rainfall. Authorities warn of flooding and evacuations as millions brace for impact. With climate change fueling extreme weather, is Australia prepared for the storm’s fury?

Cyclone Alfred approaches Australia with strong winds and heavy rains

Category 5 cyclone Zelia is swirling towards Australia's mineral-rich western coast, with gusts of up to 290 km/hour predicted, leading to emergency warnings and port closures. Watch in for more details!

Cyclone Zelia strengthens near Australia's west coast

Cyclone Chido has killed at least 94 people in Mozambique, with 110,000 homes destroyed. The storm caused chaos amid a post-election crisis. Watch this report for more details!

Cyclone Chido Kills At Least 94 In Mozambique; 110,000 Homes Destroyed

Cyclone Chido has left a trail of devastation across Mayotte and Mozambique. Mayotte was struck by the most powerful cyclone in nearly a century, leaving homes flattened, roads submerged, and 1,000 people feared dead. Why was the cyclone this deadly?

Deadly Cyclone Chido Wreaks Havoc In France's Mayotte

Paris, France 
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The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead.
Before the storm hit, around a third of the island's population was living in iron-sheeted huts that never stood a chance against the powerful cyclone.
By the time it was gone, all of Mayotte's shantytowns were flattened, burying lives—and livelihoods—beneath them.
"We fear there will be a considerable number of deaths," a French government official told AFP. "Several hundred, or maybe several thousand."
Mayotte is the poorest part of France, of which it is an integral part. 
Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyclone-chido-devastates-frances-mayotte-death-toll-could-reach-thousands-784261">Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands</a>
<h2>Flimsy </h2>
"They're made of wood, corrugated iron, and situated on hills, on beaten earth," said Florent Vallee, who runs the French Red Cross branch's emergency operations. 
"You can easily imagine the wind barreling into them and the rain creating mudslides."
Over the decades, French authorities have tried to improve housing conditions for the island's population which numbers 320,000 according to official data but is much greater because of an influx of undocumented migrants who do not show up in government statistics.
As recently as the late 1970s, modern building materials were virtually unknown in Mayotte, said Megane Aussedat, a sociologist and expert on informal housing on the island.
Despite government programmes to replace precarious shelters with solid housing, the number of available homes is still inadequate compared to the size of the population and the migration influx.
They are also out of reach for many people in Mayotte, where the median monthly income is 260 euros ($273), compared with around 2,600 euros pretax on the French mainland.
Subsidised housing projects have also been slow to materialise, said Aussedat.
However, since 2018, the authorities have been allowed to raze substandard housing, provided they immediately offered inhabitants new homes.
Such clearing operations, involving massive police contingents, are sometimes thought to have the secondary objective of flushing out undocumented migrants, but Aussedat observed that telling illegals from legal can be a challenge.
"There is almost no family in Mayotte," she said, "where everybody's status is either documented or undocumented."
<h2>Comoros influx </h2>
Mayotte's immigration issue is almost entirely due to an influx from the Comoros, an archipelago whose closest shores are just 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Mayotte, and that declared independence in the 1970s while Mayotte opted to remain French.
As poor as Mayotte is by French standards, the Comoros are even poorer, tempting many there into a perilous journey across the water in search of a better life in Mayotte.
They often end up living in makeshift areas consisting mostly of so-called "bangas"—small" houses made of cloth and thatch.
When Chido hit, many refused to leave their homes, taking their chances with the cyclone  rather than face the danger of their homes being looted or being picked up by the authorities.
Vallee said emergency services had rescued "entire families, and also a lot of children who were left alone."
Sanitary conditions, already precarious, have worsened since, mostly because of patchy access to clean water that could prompt another cholera outbreak like the one in the spring of 2024 that killed seven people, said Jean-Francois Coty, president of the Medecins du Monde NGO.
<h2>'Brakes on healthcare access' </h2>
Undocumented migrants' "fear of moving is putting the brakes on healthcare access," he said.
A French government scheme allowing undocumented people access to state healthcare is not available in Mayotte.
Coty said he hoped that French officials would pause forced deportations so immigrants can seek help without fear of expulsion.
"This is a time for humanitarian aid, not for a crackdown," he said. 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water.



Paris, France The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead. Before the storm hit, around a third of the island's population was living in iron-sheeted huts that never stood a chance against the powerful cyclone. By the time it was gone, all of Mayotte's shantytowns were flattened, burying lives—and livelihoods—beneath them. "We fear there will be a considerable number of deaths," a French government official told AFP. "Several hundred, or maybe several thousand." Mayotte is the poorest part of France, of which it is an integral part. Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water. Also Read: Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands Flimsy "They're made of wood, corrugated iron, and situated on hills, on beaten earth," said Florent Vallee, who runs the French Red Cross branch's emergency operations. "You can easily imagine the wind barreling into them and the rain creating mudslides." Over the decades, French authorities have tried to improve housing conditions for the island's population which numbers 320,000 according to official data but is much greater because of an influx of undocumented migrants who do not show up in government statistics. As recently as the late 1970s, modern building materials were virtually unknown in Mayotte, said Megane Aussedat, a sociologist and expert on informal housing on the island. Despite government programmes to replace precarious shelters with solid housing, the number of available homes is still inadequate compared to the size of the population and the migration influx. They are also out of reach for many people in Mayotte, where the median monthly income is 260 euros ($273), compared with around 2,600 euros pretax on the French mainland. Subsidised housing projects have also been slow to materialise, said Aussedat. However, since 2018, the authorities have been allowed to raze substandard housing, provided they immediately offered inhabitants new homes. Such clearing operations, involving massive police contingents, are sometimes thought to have the secondary objective of flushing out undocumented migrants, but Aussedat observed that telling illegals from legal can be a challenge. "There is almost no family in Mayotte," she said, "where everybody's status is either documented or undocumented." Comoros influx Mayotte's immigration issue is almost entirely due to an influx from the Comoros, an archipelago whose closest shores are just 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Mayotte, and that declared independence in the 1970s while Mayotte opted to remain French. As poor as Mayotte is by French standards, the Comoros are even poorer, tempting many there into a perilous journey across the water in search of a better life in Mayotte. They often end up living in makeshift areas consisting mostly of so-called "bangas"—small" houses made of cloth and thatch. When Chido hit, many refused to leave their homes, taking their chances with the cyclone rather than face the danger of their homes being looted or being picked up by the authorities. Vallee said emergency services had rescued "entire families, and also a lot of children who were left alone." Sanitary conditions, already precarious, have worsened since, mostly because of patchy access to clean water that could prompt another cholera outbreak like the one in the spring of 2024 that killed seven people, said Jean-Francois Coty, president of the Medecins du Monde NGO. 'Brakes on healthcare access' Undocumented migrants' "fear of moving is putting the brakes on healthcare access," he said. A French government scheme allowing undocumented people access to state healthcare is not available in Mayotte. Coty said he hoped that French officials would pause forced deportations so immigrants can seek help without fear of expulsion. "This is a time for humanitarian aid, not for a crackdown," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury

Cyclone Chido, described as the "century’s worst storm," has wreaked havoc on the island of Mayotte, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The death toll continues to rise as rescue efforts intensify in the affected areas.



Cyclone Chido: 'Century’s Worst Storm' Wrecks Mayotte, Death Toll Increases

The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead.

The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead. Before the storm hit, around a third of the island's population was living in iron-sheeted huts that never stood a chance against the powerful cyclone. By the time it was gone, all of Mayotte's shantytowns were flattened, burying lives—and livelihoods—beneath them. "We fear there will be a considerable number of deaths," a French government official told AFP. "Several hundred, or maybe several thousand." Mayotte is the poorest part of France, of which it is an integral part. Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water. Also Read: Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands Flimsy "They're made of wood, corrugated iron, and situated on hills, on beaten earth," said Florent Vallee, who runs the French Red Cross branch's emergency operations. "You can easily imagine the wind barreling into them and the rain creating mudslides." Over the decades, French authorities have tried to improve housing conditions for the island's population which numbers 320,000 according to official data but is much greater because of an influx of undocumented migrants who do not show up in government statistics. As recently as the late 1970s, modern building materials were virtually unknown in Mayotte, said Megane Aussedat, a sociologist and expert on informal housing on the island. Despite government programmes to replace precarious shelters with solid housing, the number of available homes is still inadequate compared to the size of the population and the migration influx. They are also out of reach for many people in Mayotte, where the median monthly income is 260 euros ($273), compared with around 2,600 euros pretax on the French mainland. Subsidised housing projects have also been slow to materialise, said Aussedat. However, since 2018, the authorities have been allowed to raze substandard housing, provided they immediately offered inhabitants new homes. Such clearing operations, involving massive police contingents, are sometimes thought to have the secondary objective of flushing out undocumented migrants, but Aussedat observed that telling illegals from legal can be a challenge. "There is almost no family in Mayotte," she said, "where everybody's status is either documented or undocumented." Comoros influx Mayotte's immigration issue is almost entirely due to an influx from the Comoros, an archipelago whose closest shores are just 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Mayotte, and that declared independence in the 1970s while Mayotte opted to remain French. As poor as Mayotte is by French standards, the Comoros are even poorer, tempting many there into a perilous journey across the water in search of a better life in Mayotte. They often end up living in makeshift areas consisting mostly of so-called "bangas"—small" houses made of cloth and thatch. When Chido hit, many refused to leave their homes, taking their chances with the cyclone rather than face the danger of their homes being looted or being picked up by the authorities. Vallee said emergency services had rescued "entire families, and also a lot of children who were left alone." Sanitary conditions, already precarious, have worsened since, mostly because of patchy access to clean water that could prompt another cholera outbreak like the one in the spring of 2024 that killed seven people, said Jean-Francois Coty, president of the Medecins du Monde NGO. 'Brakes on healthcare access' Undocumented migrants' "fear of moving is putting the brakes on healthcare access," he said. A French government scheme allowing undocumented people access to state healthcare is not available in Mayotte. Coty said he hoped that French officials would pause forced deportations so immigrants can seek help without fear of expulsion. "This is a time for humanitarian aid, not for a crackdown," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents.

Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents. 

Cyclone Chido, described as the "century’s worst storm," has wreaked havoc on the island of Mayotte, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The death toll continues to rise as rescue efforts intensify in the affected areas.

Mayotte, France
Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century.
Cyclone Chido devastated large parts of the archipelago off east Africa over the weekend with winds of more than 200 kph (124 mph), strewing homes over hillsides, and cutting phones, power and drinking water.
With areas still inaccessible, France's acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said on arrival in the disaster zone that it would take days to find the full extent of damage and deaths.
"The images are apocalyptic. It's a disaster, there's nothing left," an intensive care nurse named Oceane at the main hospital in the capital Mamoudzou told BFM TV.
Teacher Hamada Ali told Reuters that streets were covered in mud and trees, people were sheltering in schools and bottled water was being used for cooking.
"I saw someone injured by a sheet of metal ... Houses with sheet metal roofs were swept away by the cyclone. There are precarious dwellings of which we cannot see the slightest trace," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/definitely-several-hundred-killed-after-cyclone-chido-wreaks-havoc-in-mayotte-784223">'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte</a>
Residents queued outside grocery stores in search of water and other basics.
Communications were down in large parts of the territory, leaving relatives outside desperately enquiring on social media. "I need an update from Chiconi please, my brother, my sister-in-law and my niece are there and I'm without any news since Saturday," said one.
French President Emmanuel Macron was to hold an emergency meeting about Mayotte later on Monday. Acting health minister Genevieve Darrieussecq said Mamoudzou's main hospital was maintaining operations after floodwaters had been cleared while a field clinic would be set up and 100 additional medics deployed.
More than three-quarters of Mayotte's 321,000 people live in relative poverty. According to 2021 figures from statistics agency INSEE, Mayotte has an annual median disposable income of just over 3,000 euros ($3,150) per inhabitant, roughly eight times less than the Ile-de-France region around Paris.
<h2>Biggest storm in 90 years</h2>
The islands, close to the Comoros archipelago, first came under France's control in 1841. Mayotte is made up of two main islands over an area about twice the size of Washington DC.
It has been grappling with unrest in recent years, with many residents angry at undocumented immigration and inflation.
The territory has become a stronghold for the far-right National Rally with 60% voting for Marine Le Pen in the 2022 presidential election runoff.
Chido was the strongest storm to strike Mayotte in more than 90 years, French weather service Meteo France said.
Extreme weather events have become more common around the globe, in keeping with global warming. Poorer nations often say they are bearing the brunt of the environmental crisis despite historically emitting far less CO2 than richer countries.
"It was evident that ... when a cyclone hit ... we would find ourselves in a situation," leftwing lawmaker Eric Coquerel told French broadcaster LCI, saying the destruction in Mayotte laid bare a failure to prepare for the impact of climate change.
Around the territory, hundreds of makeshift houses were smashed and scattered, according to images from local media and the French gendarmerie. Coconut trees crashed through building roofs, boats were upended, rubble covered cars and people cowered under tables when the cyclone hit.
"I was screaming because I could see the end coming for me," John Balloz, who lives in the capital Mamoudzou, told Reuters.
After Mayotte, Chido made landfall in north Mozambique where it quickly weakened and was reclassified as a tropical storm on Sunday but still destroyed several houses, authorities said.
The prefect of Mayotte, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, said at the weekend that deaths would definitely be in the hundreds and possibly several thousand.
Maritime and aerial operations were underway to transport relief supplies and equipment, including from Reunion Island, another French overseas territory, French authorities said.
Mayotte's main airport, however, remained closed to civilian flights on Monday morning, said Jean-Paul Bosland, the president of France's national firefighters' federation.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cyclone Chido devastated large parts of the archipelago off east Africa over the weekend with winds of more than 200 kph (124 mph), strewing homes over hillsides, and cutting phones, power and drinking water



Mayotte, France Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century. Cyclone Chido devastated large parts of the archipelago off east Africa over the weekend with winds of more than 200 kph (124 mph), strewing homes over hillsides, and cutting phones, power and drinking water. With areas still inaccessible, France's acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said on arrival in the disaster zone that it would take days to find the full extent of damage and deaths. "The images are apocalyptic. It's a disaster, there's nothing left," an intensive care nurse named Oceane at the main hospital in the capital Mamoudzou told BFM TV. Teacher Hamada Ali told Reuters that streets were covered in mud and trees, people were sheltering in schools and bottled water was being used for cooking. "I saw someone injured by a sheet of metal ... Houses with sheet metal roofs were swept away by the cyclone. There are precarious dwellings of which we cannot see the slightest trace," he added. Also read | 'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte Residents queued outside grocery stores in search of water and other basics. Communications were down in large parts of the territory, leaving relatives outside desperately enquiring on social media. "I need an update from Chiconi please, my brother, my sister-in-law and my niece are there and I'm without any news since Saturday," said one. French President Emmanuel Macron was to hold an emergency meeting about Mayotte later on Monday. Acting health minister Genevieve Darrieussecq said Mamoudzou's main hospital was maintaining operations after floodwaters had been cleared while a field clinic would be set up and 100 additional medics deployed. More than three-quarters of Mayotte's 321,000 people live in relative poverty. According to 2021 figures from statistics agency INSEE, Mayotte has an annual median disposable income of just over 3,000 euros ($3,150) per inhabitant, roughly eight times less than the Ile-de-France region around Paris. Biggest storm in 90 years The islands, close to the Comoros archipelago, first came under France's control in 1841. Mayotte is made up of two main islands over an area about twice the size of Washington DC. It has been grappling with unrest in recent years, with many residents angry at undocumented immigration and inflation. The territory has become a stronghold for the far-right National Rally with 60% voting for Marine Le Pen in the 2022 presidential election runoff. Chido was the strongest storm to strike Mayotte in more than 90 years, French weather service Meteo France said. Extreme weather events have become more common around the globe, in keeping with global warming. Poorer nations often say they are bearing the brunt of the environmental crisis despite historically emitting far less CO2 than richer countries. "It was evident that ... when a cyclone hit ... we would find ourselves in a situation," leftwing lawmaker Eric Coquerel told French broadcaster LCI, saying the destruction in Mayotte laid bare a failure to prepare for the impact of climate change. Around the territory, hundreds of makeshift houses were smashed and scattered, according to images from local media and the French gendarmerie. Coconut trees crashed through building roofs, boats were upended, rubble covered cars and people cowered under tables when the cyclone hit. "I was screaming because I could see the end coming for me," John Balloz, who lives in the capital Mamoudzou, told Reuters. After Mayotte, Chido made landfall in north Mozambique where it quickly weakened and was reclassified as a tropical storm on Sunday but still destroyed several houses, authorities said. The prefect of Mayotte, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, said at the weekend that deaths would definitely be in the hundreds and possibly several thousand. Maritime and aerial operations were underway to transport relief supplies and equipment, including from Reunion Island, another French overseas territory, French authorities said. Mayotte's main airport, however, remained closed to civilian flights on Monday morning, said Jean-Paul Bosland, the president of France's national firefighters' federation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cyclone Chido: Thousands feared dead after worst cyclone in 90 years hits Mayotte

Mayotte, France
Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official. 
The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure.  
<h2>Hospitals and schools damaged</h2>
The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries.

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Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services.
Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened.
Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation.  
<h2>Emergency response underway amid challenges</h2>
France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte.
Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages.  
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<h2>Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations</h2>
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources.
Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance.
The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath.  
<h2>Lockdown and relief efforts</h2>
Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage.
Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population.
(With inputs from agencies)

The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure  



Mayotte, France Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official. The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure. Hospitals and schools damaged The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries. Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services. Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened. Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation. Emergency response underway amid challenges France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte. Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages. Also read | UK admits to 'diplomatic contact' with Syria’s HTS rebel group despite terror designation Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources. Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance. The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath. Lockdown and relief efforts Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage. Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands

Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century.

Cyclone Chido devastated large parts of the archipelago off east Africa over the weekend with winds of more than 200 kph (124 mph), strewing homes over hillsides, and cutting phones, power and drinking water.

With areas still inaccessible, France's acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said on arrival in the disaster zone that it would take days to find the full extent of damage and deaths.

"The images are apocalyptic. It's a disaster, there's nothing left," an intensive care nurse named Oceane at the main hospital in the capital Mamoudzou told BFM TV.

Teacher Hamada Ali told Reuters that streets were covered in mud and trees, people were sheltering in schools and bottled water was being used for cooking.

"I saw someone injured by a sheet of metal ... Houses with sheet metal roofs were swept away by the cyclone. There are precarious dwellings of which we cannot see the slightest trace," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/definitely-several-hundred-killed-after-cyclone-chido-wreaks-havoc-in-mayotte-784223">'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte</a>

Residents queued outside grocery stores in search of water and other basics.

Communications were down in large parts of the territory, leaving relatives outside desperately enquiring on social media. "I need an update from Chiconi please, my brother, my sister-in-law and my niece are there and I'm without any news since Saturday," said one.

French President Emmanuel Macron was to hold an emergency meeting about Mayotte later on Monday. Acting health minister Genevieve Darrieussecq said Mamoudzou's main hospital was maintaining operations after floodwaters had been cleared while a field clinic would be set up and 100 additional medics deployed.

More than three-quarters of Mayotte's 321,000 people live in relative poverty. According to 2021 figures from statistics agency INSEE, Mayotte has an annual median disposable income of just over 3,000 euros ($3,150) per inhabitant, roughly eight times less than the Ile-de-France region around Paris.

<h2>Biggest storm in 90 years</h2>

The islands, close to the Comoros archipelago, first came under France's control in 1841. Mayotte is made up of two main islands over an area about twice the size of Washington DC.

It has been grappling with unrest in recent years, with many residents angry at undocumented immigration and inflation.

The territory has become a stronghold for the far-right National Rally with 60% voting for Marine Le Pen in the 2022 presidential election runoff.

Chido was the strongest storm to strike Mayotte in more than 90 years, French weather service Meteo France said.

Extreme weather events have become more common around the globe, in keeping with global warming. Poorer nations often say they are bearing the brunt of the environmental crisis despite historically emitting far less CO2 than richer countries.

"It was evident that ... when a cyclone hit ... we would find ourselves in a situation," leftwing lawmaker Eric Coquerel told French broadcaster LCI, saying the destruction in Mayotte laid bare a failure to prepare for the impact of climate change.

Around the territory, hundreds of makeshift houses were smashed and scattered, according to images from local media and the French gendarmerie. Coconut trees crashed through building roofs, boats were upended, rubble covered cars and people cowered under tables when the cyclone hit.

"I was screaming because I could see the end coming for me," John Balloz, who lives in the capital Mamoudzou, told Reuters.

After Mayotte, Chido made landfall in north Mozambique where it quickly weakened and was reclassified as a tropical storm on Sunday but still destroyed several houses, authorities said.

The prefect of Mayotte, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, said at the weekend that deaths would definitely be in the hundreds and possibly several thousand.

Maritime and aerial operations were underway to transport relief supplies and equipment, including from Reunion Island, another French overseas territory, French authorities said.

Mayotte's main airport, however, remained closed to civilian flights on Monday morning, said Jean-Paul Bosland, the president of France's national firefighters' federation.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century.

Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century. Cyclone Chido devastated large parts of the archipelago off east Africa over the weekend with winds of more than 200 kph (124 mph), strewing homes over hillsides, and cutting phones, power and drinking water. With areas still inaccessible, France's acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said on arrival in the disaster zone that it would take days to find the full extent of damage and deaths. "The images are apocalyptic. It's a disaster, there's nothing left," an intensive care nurse named Oceane at the main hospital in the capital Mamoudzou told BFM TV. Teacher Hamada Ali told Reuters that streets were covered in mud and trees, people were sheltering in schools and bottled water was being used for cooking. "I saw someone injured by a sheet of metal ... Houses with sheet metal roofs were swept away by the cyclone. There are precarious dwellings of which we cannot see the slightest trace," he added. Also read | 'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte Residents queued outside grocery stores in search of water and other basics. Communications were down in large parts of the territory, leaving relatives outside desperately enquiring on social media. "I need an update from Chiconi please, my brother, my sister-in-law and my niece are there and I'm without any news since Saturday," said one. French President Emmanuel Macron was to hold an emergency meeting about Mayotte later on Monday. Acting health minister Genevieve Darrieussecq said Mamoudzou's main hospital was maintaining operations after floodwaters had been cleared while a field clinic would be set up and 100 additional medics deployed. More than three-quarters of Mayotte's 321,000 people live in relative poverty. According to 2021 figures from statistics agency INSEE, Mayotte has an annual median disposable income of just over 3,000 euros ($3,150) per inhabitant, roughly eight times less than the Ile-de-France region around Paris. Biggest storm in 90 years The islands, close to the Comoros archipelago, first came under France's control in 1841. Mayotte is made up of two main islands over an area about twice the size of Washington DC. It has been grappling with unrest in recent years, with many residents angry at undocumented immigration and inflation. The territory has become a stronghold for the far-right National Rally with 60% voting for Marine Le Pen in the 2022 presidential election runoff. Chido was the strongest storm to strike Mayotte in more than 90 years, French weather service Meteo France said. Extreme weather events have become more common around the globe, in keeping with global warming. Poorer nations often say they are bearing the brunt of the environmental crisis despite historically emitting far less CO2 than richer countries. "It was evident that ... when a cyclone hit ... we would find ourselves in a situation," leftwing lawmaker Eric Coquerel told French broadcaster LCI, saying the destruction in Mayotte laid bare a failure to prepare for the impact of climate change. Around the territory, hundreds of makeshift houses were smashed and scattered, according to images from local media and the French gendarmerie. Coconut trees crashed through building roofs, boats were upended, rubble covered cars and people cowered under tables when the cyclone hit. "I was screaming because I could see the end coming for me," John Balloz, who lives in the capital Mamoudzou, told Reuters. After Mayotte, Chido made landfall in north Mozambique where it quickly weakened and was reclassified as a tropical storm on Sunday but still destroyed several houses, authorities said. The prefect of Mayotte, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, said at the weekend that deaths would definitely be in the hundreds and possibly several thousand. Maritime and aerial operations were underway to transport relief supplies and equipment, including from Reunion Island, another French overseas territory, French authorities said. Mayotte's main airport, however, remained closed to civilian flights on Monday morning, said Jean-Paul Bosland, the president of France's national firefighters' federation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hundreds, and possibly thousands, of people, are feared dead in Mayotte after the French Indian Ocean territory was devastated by a powerful cyclone.

Several Hundreds, Maybe Thousands Feared Dead After Mayotte Cyclone: Officials

Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official.&nbsp;

The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure. &nbsp;

<h2>Hospitals and schools damaged</h2>

The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries.

&nbsp;

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Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services.

Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened.

Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation. &nbsp;

<h2>Emergency response underway amid challenges</h2>

France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte.

Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages. &nbsp;

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<h2>Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations</h2>

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources.

Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance.

The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath. &nbsp;

<h2>Lockdown and relief efforts</h2>

Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage.

Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official.

Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official. The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure. Hospitals and schools damaged The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries. Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services. Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened. Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation. Emergency response underway amid challenges France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte. Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages. Also read | UK admits to 'diplomatic contact' with Syria’s HTS rebel group despite terror designation Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources. Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance. The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath. Lockdown and relief efforts Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage. Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population. (With inputs from agencies)

Saint-Denis de la Reunion, France
Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult.
Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.
A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths.
"I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere.
He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours.
The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured.
"The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing".
Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour.
Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population.
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Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP.
One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself.
<h2>Scramble for supplies</h2>
Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands.
Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar.
A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow.
A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF.
Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents.
<h2>Storm hits Mozambique</h2>
Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage.
Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said.
Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said.
But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque.
UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage.
"Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement.
Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts.
The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively.
It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods.
Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages



Saint-Denis de la Reunion, France Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult. Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages. A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths. "I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere. He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours. The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured. "The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing". Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour. Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population. Also read | Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP. One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself. Scramble for supplies Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands. Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar. A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow. A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF. Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents. Storm hits Mozambique Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage. Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said. Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said. But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque. UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage. "Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement. Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts. The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively. It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods. Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte

France
At least 14 people were killed in Mayotte when a fierce cyclone battered the French Indian Ocean territory, authorities said Sunday, with officials warning it will take days to know the full toll.
Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.
The toll of 14 was counted in a provisional list compiled by authorities, a security source told AFP.
Nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, said Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, mayor of Mayotte's capital Mamoudzou, while 246 more were seriously injured.
"The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing".
Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique.
Watch | Cyclone Chido: France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Batters Mayotte
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Its gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour had "completely destroyed" the territory's many shantytowns, acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said following a crisis meeting in Paris late Saturday.
Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted, and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population.
"It will take several days" to establish the full death toll, but "we fear that it is heavy", Retailleau said, adding that the Muslim custom of burial within a day of death could complicate the count.
Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP.
One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself.
"Even the largest companies have suffered damage," he added.
<h2>Scramble for supplies </h2>
Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands from mainland France ahead of the storm.
Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar.
Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte residents.
"Everything has been swept away, everything is razed," said Mounira, a woman whose house was destroyed in the Kaweni district in Mamoudzou's east -- France's largest shantytown.
More than 15,000 homes are without electricity, according to Environment Minister Agnes-Pannier Runacher, while telephone access is severely limited even for emergency calls.
Acting Transport Minister Francois Durovray wrote on X that the Pamandzi airport on Petite-Terre, the smaller of Mayotte's two major islands, had "suffered major damage".
Storm hits Mozambique
Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage.
Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique early Sunday, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said.
"The cyclone is already affecting Pemba with a very strong intensity. We were monitoring the situation, but there is no communication with Pemba since 7:00 am (0500 GMT)," National Institute of Meteorology director Aderito Aramuge told AFP.
UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage.
"Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement.
Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts.
The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively.
It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods.
Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.



 



France At least 14 people were killed in Mayotte when a fierce cyclone battered the French Indian Ocean territory, authorities said Sunday, with officials warning it will take days to know the full toll. Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages. The toll of 14 was counted in a provisional list compiled by authorities, a security source told AFP. Nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, said Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, mayor of Mayotte's capital Mamoudzou, while 246 more were seriously injured. "The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing". Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique. Watch | Cyclone Chido: France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Batters Mayotte × Its gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour had "completely destroyed" the territory's many shantytowns, acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said following a crisis meeting in Paris late Saturday. Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted, and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population. "It will take several days" to establish the full death toll, but "we fear that it is heavy", Retailleau said, adding that the Muslim custom of burial within a day of death could complicate the count. Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP. One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself. "Even the largest companies have suffered damage," he added. Scramble for supplies Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands from mainland France ahead of the storm. Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar. Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte residents. "Everything has been swept away, everything is razed," said Mounira, a woman whose house was destroyed in the Kaweni district in Mamoudzou's east -- France's largest shantytown. More than 15,000 homes are without electricity, according to Environment Minister Agnes-Pannier Runacher, while telephone access is severely limited even for emergency calls. Acting Transport Minister Francois Durovray wrote on X that the Pamandzi airport on Petite-Terre, the smaller of Mayotte's two major islands, had "suffered major damage". Storm hits Mozambique Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage. Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique early Sunday, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said. "The cyclone is already affecting Pemba with a very strong intensity. We were monitoring the situation, but there is no communication with Pemba since 7:00 am (0500 GMT)," National Institute of Meteorology director Aderito Aramuge told AFP. UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage. "Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement. Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts. The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively. It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods. Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mayotte hit by ‘apocalyptic’ Cyclone Chido: 14 killed, thousands left without power and water

Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult.

Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.

A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths.

"I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere.

He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours.

The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured.

"The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing".

Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour.

Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>

Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP.

One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself.

<h2>Scramble for supplies</h2>

Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands.

Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar.

A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow.

A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF.

Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents.

<h2>Storm hits Mozambique</h2>

Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage.

Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said.

Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said.

But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque.

UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage.

"Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement.

Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts.

The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively.

It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods.

Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult.

Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult. Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages. A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths. "I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere. He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours. The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured. "The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing". Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour. Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population. Also read | Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP. One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself. Scramble for supplies Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands. Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar. A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow. A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF. Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents. Storm hits Mozambique Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage. Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said. Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said. But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque. UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage. "Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement. Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts. The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively. It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods. Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents. With Mayotte being one of France's overseas territories, the French government has pledged support to help the island recover from this devastating natural disaster.

Cyclone Chido:  France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Batters Mayotte

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents. With Mayotte being one of France's overseas territories, the French government has pledged support to help the island recover from this devastating natural disaster.



At least 14 people were killed in Mayotte when a fierce cyclone battered the French Indian Ocean territory, authorities said Sunday, with officials warning it will take days to know the full toll.

Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.

The toll of 14 was counted in a provisional list compiled by authorities, a security source told AFP.

Nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, said Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, mayor of Mayotte's capital Mamoudzou, while 246 more were seriously injured.

"The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing".

Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique.

Watch |&nbsp;Cyclone Chido: France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Batters Mayotte

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Its gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour had "completely destroyed" the territory's many shantytowns, acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said following a crisis meeting in Paris late Saturday.

Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted, and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population.

"It will take several days" to establish the full death toll, but "we fear that it is heavy", Retailleau said, adding that the Muslim custom of burial within a day of death could complicate the count.

Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP.

One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself.

"Even the largest companies have suffered damage," he added.

<h2>Scramble for supplies&nbsp;</h2>

Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands from mainland France ahead of the storm.

Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar.

Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte residents.

"Everything has been swept away, everything is razed," said Mounira, a woman whose house was destroyed in the Kaweni district in Mamoudzou's east -- France's largest shantytown.

More than 15,000 homes are without electricity, according to Environment Minister Agnes-Pannier Runacher, while telephone access is severely limited even for emergency calls.

Acting Transport Minister Francois Durovray wrote on X that the Pamandzi airport on Petite-Terre, the smaller of Mayotte's two major islands, had "suffered major damage".

Storm hits Mozambique 
&nbsp; 
Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage.

Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique early Sunday, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said.

"The cyclone is already affecting Pemba with a very strong intensity. We were monitoring the situation, but there is no communication with Pemba since 7:00 am (0500 GMT)," National Institute of Meteorology director Aderito Aramuge told AFP.

UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage.

"Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement.

Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts.

The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively.

It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods.

Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

At least 14 people were killed in Mayotte when a fierce cyclone battered the French Indian Ocean territory, authorities said Sunday, with officials warning it will take days to know the full toll.

At least 14 people were killed in Mayotte when a fierce cyclone battered the French Indian Ocean territory, authorities said Sunday, with officials warning it will take days to know the full toll. Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages. The toll of 14 was counted in a provisional list compiled by authorities, a security source told AFP. Nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, said Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, mayor of Mayotte's capital Mamoudzou, while 246 more were seriously injured. "The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing". Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique. Watch | Cyclone Chido: France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Batters Mayotte × Its gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour had "completely destroyed" the territory's many shantytowns, acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said following a crisis meeting in Paris late Saturday. Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted, and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population. "It will take several days" to establish the full death toll, but "we fear that it is heavy", Retailleau said, adding that the Muslim custom of burial within a day of death could complicate the count. Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP. One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself. "Even the largest companies have suffered damage," he added. Scramble for supplies Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands from mainland France ahead of the storm. Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar. Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte residents. "Everything has been swept away, everything is razed," said Mounira, a woman whose house was destroyed in the Kaweni district in Mamoudzou's east -- France's largest shantytown. More than 15,000 homes are without electricity, according to Environment Minister Agnes-Pannier Runacher, while telephone access is severely limited even for emergency calls. Acting Transport Minister Francois Durovray wrote on X that the Pamandzi airport on Petite-Terre, the smaller of Mayotte's two major islands, had "suffered major damage". Storm hits Mozambique Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage. Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique early Sunday, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said. "The cyclone is already affecting Pemba with a very strong intensity. We were monitoring the situation, but there is no communication with Pemba since 7:00 am (0500 GMT)," National Institute of Meteorology director Aderito Aramuge told AFP. UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage. "Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement. Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts. The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively. It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods. Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the release of Rs 944.80 crore to Tamil Nadu as a central share from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to help the People affected by Cyclone 'Fengal', the MHA said in a statement on Friday. The announcement comes days after cyclone 'Fengal' hit Tamil Nadu on November 30.As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the states affected by natural calamities in mitigating the hardship faced by the people. 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyclone-fengal-relentless-rains-put-kerala-on-edge-puducherry-locks-down-its-schools-781038">Cyclone Fengal: Relentless Rains Put Kerala On Edge, Puducherry Locks Down Its Schools</a> 
 
The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) had been sent in cyclonic storm 'Fengal' which affected the state of Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry for an on-the-spot assessment of the damages."After the assessment reports of IMCTs are received, additional financial assistance from NDRF (National Disaster Relief Funds), will be approved to the disaster-affected states, as per the established procedure," the MHA said. More than Rs 21,718.716 crore has already been released to 28 states during this year. 
 
Also watch:&nbsp;Cyclone Fengal Claims Three Lives In Chennai; Puducherry Experiences Highest Rainfall In 30 Years

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This includes Rs 14878.40 crore from State Disaster Relief Funds to 26 states, Rs 4808.32 crore from NDRF to 18 states, Rs 1385.45 crore from State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF) to 11 states and Rs 646.546 crore from National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) to seven states.In addition to financial assistance, the Central government has also provided all logistic assistance, including deployment of requisite NDRF teams, Army teams and Air Force support to all the flood and cyclone-affected states, it added. 
 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the release of Rs 944.80 crore to Tamil Nadu as a central share from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to help the People affected by Cyclone 'Fengal', the MHA said in a statement on Friday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the release of Rs 944.80 crore to Tamil Nadu as a central share from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to help the People affected by Cyclone 'Fengal', the MHA said in a statement on Friday. The announcement comes days after cyclone 'Fengal' hit Tamil Nadu on November 30.As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the states affected by natural calamities in mitigating the hardship faced by the people. Also Read: Cyclone Fengal: Relentless Rains Put Kerala On Edge, Puducherry Locks Down Its Schools The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) had been sent in cyclonic storm 'Fengal' which affected the state of Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry for an on-the-spot assessment of the damages."After the assessment reports of IMCTs are received, additional financial assistance from NDRF (National Disaster Relief Funds), will be approved to the disaster-affected states, as per the established procedure," the MHA said. More than Rs 21,718.716 crore has already been released to 28 states during this year. Also watch: Cyclone Fengal Claims Three Lives In Chennai; Puducherry Experiences Highest Rainfall In 30 Years × This includes Rs 14878.40 crore from State Disaster Relief Funds to 26 states, Rs 4808.32 crore from NDRF to 18 states, Rs 1385.45 crore from State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF) to 11 states and Rs 646.546 crore from National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) to seven states.In addition to financial assistance, the Central government has also provided all logistic assistance, including deployment of requisite NDRF teams, Army teams and Air Force support to all the flood and cyclone-affected states, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cyclone Fengal: MHA approves release of $111.5 million as aid for Tamil Nadu

The remnants of cyclone Fengal continues to bring heavy rainfall and flood situations across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Even a day after it weakened...

Cyclone Fengal: Indian Weather Department Issues Yellow Alert

Cyclone Fengal, a slow-moving system that remained stationary over the Puducherry-Villupuram region for more than 24 hours, caused widespread destruction across Tamil Nadu. The cyclone's prolonged presence has severely impacted infrastructure and livelihoods in the affected regions. Watch to Know more details!

Cyclone Fengal: Torrential rains Across Tamil Nadu Cause Widespread Destruction

Several states in India's south are still feeling the impact of cyclone Fengal..While cyclone has weakened into a deep depression, but heavy rains and floods continued to pound the area. At least seven people were killed in India's Tamil Nadu after a boulder fell on a residential building following heavy rains... Watch here to learn more about its impact.

Tamil Nadu: CM MK Stalin Asks PM Modi To Release Rs 2,000 Crore For Aid Efforts | World News | WION

Seven members of a family, including five children, lost their lives after a huge rock fell on their home in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvannamalai due to the severe weather conditions caused by Cyclone Fengal. Four of the bodies have been recovered and transferred to the hospital. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin announced an ex-gratia of Rs 500,000 for the family.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Tamil Nadu: 7 people, including 5 children, died in Tiruvannamalai when a huge rock fell on their house, following continuous rainfall because of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FengalCyclone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FengalCyclone</a>. 4 bodies have been recovered and sent to the hospital. 
 
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin announced… <a href="https://t.co/7AS6gqPtai">pic.twitter.com/7AS6gqPtai</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1863767748326957291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Cyclone Fengal brought torrential rains to several districts in Tamil Nadu resulting in widespread destruction. The rescue and relief operations are ongoing for people living in the affected areas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-braces-for-severe-and-harsh-winter-with-la-nina-impact-780883">Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact</a>

<h2>Fengal wreaked unprecedented havoc</h2>

The state received heavy rainfall, with a record-breaking number equivalent to the average of the entire season, measuring over 500 mm in a single day.

Several districts including Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, and Kallakurichi, are witnessing flooding and serious damage to farm fields and infrastructure.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said the cyclone has wreaked unprecedented havoc in several districts in the state, appealing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for more funds for the restoration of the affected areas.

“Cyclone Fengal has wreaked unprecedented havoc across 14 districts of Tamil Nadu, affecting 1.5 crore people, inundating 2.11 lakh hectares of farmland, and damaging critical infrastructure. Given the magnitude of destruction, I urge PM Narendra Modi to release Rs 2000 crore from the NDRF immediately to aid emergency restoration and rehabilitation efforts,” CM Stalin wrote on X.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-improves-slightly-still-in-poor-category-780858">Delhi's air quality improves slightly, but still in ‘poor’ category</a>

<h2>Flights and train operations affected</h2>

The cyclonic storm has resulted in delays in the operation of flights and trains.

Nearly 48 trains passing through Villupuram were delayed. Landslides in several areas resulted in blocked transport routes.

Some districts are also facing disruption in power supply due to the severe weather. A heavy rain warning has been issued in Coimbatore and Nilgiri till December 3.

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven members of a family, including five children, lost their lives after a huge rock fell on their home in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvannamalai due to the severe weather conditions caused by Cyclone Fengal.

Seven members of a family, including five children, lost their lives after a huge rock fell on their home in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvannamalai due to the severe weather conditions caused by Cyclone Fengal. Four of the bodies have been recovered and transferred to the hospital. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin announced an ex-gratia of Rs 500,000 for the family. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: 7 people, including 5 children, died in Tiruvannamalai when a huge rock fell on their house, following continuous rainfall because of #FengalCyclone. 4 bodies have been recovered and sent to the hospital. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin announced… pic.twitter.com/7AS6gqPtai — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2024 × Cyclone Fengal brought torrential rains to several districts in Tamil Nadu resulting in widespread destruction. The rescue and relief operations are ongoing for people living in the affected areas. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact Fengal wreaked unprecedented havoc The state received heavy rainfall, with a record-breaking number equivalent to the average of the entire season, measuring over 500 mm in a single day. Several districts including Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, and Kallakurichi, are witnessing flooding and serious damage to farm fields and infrastructure. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said the cyclone has wreaked unprecedented havoc in several districts in the state, appealing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for more funds for the restoration of the affected areas. “Cyclone Fengal has wreaked unprecedented havoc across 14 districts of Tamil Nadu, affecting 1.5 crore people, inundating 2.11 lakh hectares of farmland, and damaging critical infrastructure. Given the magnitude of destruction, I urge PM Narendra Modi to release Rs 2000 crore from the NDRF immediately to aid emergency restoration and rehabilitation efforts,” CM Stalin wrote on X. Also read | Delhi's air quality improves slightly, but still in ‘poor’ category Flights and train operations affected The cyclonic storm has resulted in delays in the operation of flights and trains. Nearly 48 trains passing through Villupuram were delayed. Landslides in several areas resulted in blocked transport routes. Some districts are also facing disruption in power supply due to the severe weather. A heavy rain warning has been issued in Coimbatore and Nilgiri till December 3. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Fengal: 7 family members die in landslide in Tamil Nadu; heavy rains wreak havoc | Video

Several states in India's south are still feeling the impact of cyclone Fengal..While cyclone has weakened into a deep depression, but heavy rains and floods continued to pound the area.. At least seven people were killed in India's Tamil Nadu after a boulder fell on a residential building following heavy rains... Watch here to learn more about its impact.

Cyclone Fengal Weakens, Death Toll Rises To 20

At least three people died in rain-related incidents as Cyclone Fengal passed through South India. The Cyclone hit the Indian Mainland between North Tamil Nadu and Puducherry late on Saturday. Cyclone Fengal, a slow-moving system that remained stationary over the Puducherry-Villupuram region for more than 24 hours, caused widespread destruction across Tamil Nadu. The cyclone's prolonged presence has severely impacted infrastructure and livelihoods in the affected regions. Watch to Know more details!

Cyclone Fengal: 'Historic' Levels Of Rain Dumped In Tamil Nadu’s Interior Areas | WION Dispatch

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