“It’s a very moving minute of silence.” France observed a moment of contemplation in tribute to the victims of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte, Monday December 23 at 11 a.m., as part of the national day of mourning. This minute of silence “has the meaning of communion in mourning, it has the meaning of solidarity for those who are in ordeal”commented François Bayrou from Matignon. The Prime Minister also wished “make the Mahorais feel surrounded by an entire country”. President Emmanuel Macron took part in the minute of silence from the main courtyard of the Elysée. Follow our live stream.
Rescue at work, uncertain outcome. The most devastating cyclone in 90 years in Mayotte destroyed all of the precarious housing and caused colossal damage. In the poorest department in France, emergency services have since been hard at work restoring essential services such as water, electricity and communications networks. The provisional toll from this natural disaster, facilitated by global warming, stands at 35 dead and around 2,500 injured, but the authorities, who fear a higher number of victims, have launched a research mission.
Heavy tolls in several countries. In Mozambique, the cyclone caused the death of at least 94 people, according to local authorities. The inventory of damage from the cyclone is also overwhelming, with more than 110,000 homes destroyed in the country. In Malawi, Chido killed 13 people.
Waiting for a government announcement. Given as probable on Sunday evening, the presentation of François Bayrou's government was postponed. An announcement is now planned for Monday. Due to national mourning, it will not take place before 6 p.m., the Elysée announced Monday morning.
