Cyclone Remal, the first cyclone of the 2024 Bay of Bengal season, made landfall in the coastal regions of Bangladesh and India. Get the details of the cyclone, its impact, evacuation efforts, and the current situation.
Landfall Location and Wind Speed
Cyclone Remal struck the coastal regions of Bangladesh, near Mongla port, and the adjoining Sagar Islands in India’s West Bengal state. The wind speed during landfall reached up to 135 km/h (84 mph) according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This early-season cyclone has raised concerns ahead of the monsoon season.
Casualties
At least nine people lost their lives due to Cyclone Remal. Seven fatalities occurred in Bangladesh’s Barishal, Satkhira, Patuakhali, Bhola, and Chattogram. Two people died in West Bengal, India, as a result of the cyclone.
Evacuations and Precautions
- Bangladesh Evacuations:
- Approximately 800,000 people were evacuated from nine coastal districts and port areas, including Mongla and Chittagong.
- India Precautions:
- Kolkata airport suspended operations, cancelling 50 domestic and international flights.
- Around 150,000 people from India’s Sundarbans mangrove forest were evacuated inland.
- The Indian Coast Guard closely monitored the landfall, with ships and hovercraft on standby for post-impact challenges.
Current Status
As of the latest update, Cyclone Remal weakened after landfall and is about 40 km (24.9 miles) northwest of Bangladesh’s port Mongla, 90 km (56 miles) east of Kolkata, and 90 km northeast of the Sundarbans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cyclone Remal
- What is Cyclone Remal?
- Cyclone Remal is the latest cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal. It formed in May 2024 and is expected to impact southern Bangladesh and West Bengal.
- Who named Cyclone Remal?
- The name “Remal” was provided by Oman. The WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones coordinates cyclone names in the Bay of Bengal.
- Is Cyclone Remal a supercyclone?
- No, it is not. Cyclone Remal has been upgraded to a severe cyclonic storm.
- How strong is Cyclone Remal?
- Wind speeds between 88 to 117 km/h (55 to 73 mph) are expected on the coasts. While not the strongest, it poses risks due to its impact on vulnerable regions.
- Where and when will Cyclone Remal make landfall?
- Cyclone Remal is expected to make landfall south of Kolkata in West Bengal. It will impact both Bangladesh and West Bengal.
- What will be the impact of Cyclone Remal?
- Coastal regions will be severely affected, and inland areas will experience heavy rainfall and wind.
- Is Cyclone Remal related to Cyclone Amphan (2020)?
- No, Cyclone Remal is a separate weather system. However, both cyclones affected the Sundarbans region.
- How can I stay informed during Cyclone Remal?
- Follow official weather updates and evacuation advisories from local authorities or Nirnay News