Thousands Evacuated as Severe Cyclone Approaches Bay of Bengal Coast

Bangladesh has evacuated nearly 800,000 people from vulnerable areas in anticipation of Cyclone Remal, which is expected to make landfall around midnight Sunday. Both Bangladesh and India’s West Bengal coastlines are bracing for impact.

Cyclone Remal’s Impact

Expected Wind Speeds: The India Meteorological Department forecasts wind speeds up to 120 km/h (75 mph), with gusts reaching 135 km/h (85 mph).
Affected Regions: West Bengal’s Sagar Island and Bangladesh’s Khepupara will be particularly impacted.

Emergency Measures

Evacuation: Bangladesh’s disaster management and relief ministry, led by junior minister Mohibur Rahman, has mobilized volunteers to evacuate residents to 4,000 cyclone shelters.
Closures: Schools in the affected regions are closed until further notice. Airports in Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh, as well as Kolkata airport in India, are closed.
Port Precautions: Chittagong’s main seaport has suspended operations, and ships are being moved to the deep sea.

Thousands flee as cyclone heads towards Bangladesh

Anticipated Conditions

Rainfall: Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in coastal districts of West Bengal.
Storm Surge: A surge up to 1 meter (3.1 feet) could flood low-lying areas in West Bengal and Bangladesh.
Damage Potential: Cyclones like Remal can cause significant damage, uprooting trees and damaging homes, power, and communication lines.

Climate Concerns

Cyclones frequently affect India’s coastlines, and climate change has intensified these storms, necessitating enhanced disaster preparedness.