Mayotte, which lies between the African mainland and Madagascar, was already France's most impoverished territory before the cyclone struck.

Around 100 tonnes of equipment are being delivered each day, the ministry said, as an air bridge was built between Mayotte, Reunion and mainland France.

After Mayotte, the storm hit the African mainland, killing at least 45 people in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi.

After Mayotte the storm hit the African mainland, killing at least 45 people in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi.

The cyclone is also expected to hit Mozambique on the African mainland.