Death toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique rises to 120

The number of injured was also revised upwards, to almost 900. The cyclone wreaked havoc not only in Mozambique, but also on the French island of Mayotte a week ago. On the island east of Mozambique, 35 deaths have been officially counted so far, but it is feared that the actual death toll is considerably higher. Rescuers believe the number is in the thousands.

Officials say the deceased may have been buried quickly according to religious customs before they could be counted. In addition, there is a chance that many of the victims who died were undocumented immigrants. Chido is the strongest storm on Mayotte in ninety years.

France held a minute’s silence for the victims of the cyclone at 11am today. This Monday is a national day of mourning. The French flag is flying at half-mast throughout the country.

The day of mourning is intended to show solidarity with the people of Mayotte, Prime Minister François Bayrou said. France “is there to rebuild Mayotte and ensure that the people of Mayotte feel supported by the whole country.”