Mayotte: vulnerability to natural disasters and environmental issues
The Mayotte archipelago, recently confronted with the passage of Cyclone Chido, finds itself once again exposed to the fragility of its environment in the face of natural disasters. This territory, although located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, has characteristics that make it particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events such as tropical storms.
The geography of Mayotte, with its mountainous terrain and proximity to intertropical convergence zones, creates an environment conducive to the formation and intensification of violent weather events. In addition, the chaotic urbanization of the archipelago, characterized by the presence of shanty towns and precarious constructions, aggravates the situation by further exposing the population to natural risks.
Mayotte’s shanty towns, often located in risk areas, are major points of vulnerability in the event of cyclones or floods. These homes, built without respecting safety and weather resistance standards, become high-risk places when they are affected by strong winds and torrential rains. In times of crisis, these fragile homes further weaken the local population and increase the number of potential victims.
Faced with these challenges, it is essential to implement effective policies and prevention measures to reduce Mayotte’s vulnerability to natural disasters. It is essential to invest in the construction of storm- and flood-resistant housing, to raise awareness among the population about natural risks and to set up rapid warning and evacuation systems in the event of an emergency.
Protecting the environment and preserving local ecosystems are also key elements in strengthening Mayotte’s resilience to extreme weather events. Combating deforestation, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and fostering sustainable management of natural resources are essential actions to preserve the ecological balance of the archipelago and limit the impacts of climate change.
Ultimately, Mayotte’s vulnerability to natural disasters underlines the urgency of taking action to strengthen the resilience of this fragile archipelago. By combining prevention, awareness-raising and environmental preservation efforts, it is possible to reduce risks and protect the local population from the consequences of extreme weather events. Mayotte must actively engage in a sustainable management approach for its territory to face the environmental and climate challenges that are looming on the horizon.