Reports of widespread damage are emerging from Mayotte after a 100-year cyclone ripped across the French archipelago Saturday, inflicting devastation that one resident likened to an atomic bomb, with hundreds and possibly even thousands of feared victims.

Local authorities said the cyclone, which made landfall with 140 mph, winds devastated several “shantytowns” across the island.

Aid rushed to French territory with thousands feared dead in ‘horrific’ cyclone - Chido hit Mayotte overnight with winds of more than 200kmph, damaging housing, government buildings and a hospital