IN PHOTOS: Cyclone Remal wreaks havoc in Bangladesh leaving 7 dead

Cyclone Remal has caused significant devastation in Bangladesh, resulting in the deaths of at least seven individuals and leaving 15 million people without electricity. The severe cyclone hit the coasts with winds up to 120 kph, causing widespread damage and power cuts. Pics/ AFP and United Nations via X

Updated On: 2024-05-27 03:36 PM IST

Compiled by : Sanjana Deshpande

Cyclone Remal has caused significant devastation in Bangladesh, resulting in deaths of at least seven persons & leaving 15 million people without electricity

Initially classified as a severe cyclone, Remal weakened into a cyclonic storm on Monday morning, with sustained wind speeds dropping to 80-90 kilometres per hour. The storm made landfall around midnight on Sunday and continued to move northeast, bringing heavy rain and gusty winds.

The cyclone has impacted various regions, including Barisal, Bhola, Patuakhali, Satkhira, and Chattogram. These areas have experienced severe weather conditions, with storm surges inundating hundreds of villages and causing extensive damage.

In Patuakhali, a man was washed away by a storm surge while trying to bring his sister and aunt to safety. In Satkhira, another person died after falling while seeking cover. Five more fatalities were reported in Barisal, Bhola, and Chattogram.

In Mongla, a trawler sank during the storm, resulting in two missing persons, including a child. The cyclone has caused significant disruptions in maritime activities, with authorities closing seaports and the airport in Chattogram.

To minimise damage, the rural power authority cut off electricity to 15 million people in coastal areas. The power outages have lasted over 12 hours in some places, but workers are preparing to restore connections once the storm subsides.

Bangladesh's government has taken extensive measures to protect its citizens, including evacuating nearly 800,000 people from vulnerable areas. Up to 9,000 cyclone shelters have been readied, and volunteers have been deployed to assist in the evacuation efforts.

The cyclone has caused extensive damage to infrastructure, with many schools in coastal regions being used as shelters. The government has also ensured that multi-storey facilities are available to shelter cattle during the storm.

The Met Department has issued severe weather warnings, advising the maritime ports of Payra and Mongla to hoist danger signal number 10. Fishing boats and trawlers have been instructed to remain in a safe harbour until further notice.

Despite weakening, the cyclone continues to bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds to Dhaka and surrounding areas. Coastal districts and islands face the threat of wind-driven tides rising 8-12 feet above normal.

On Bhashan Char island, home to 36,000 Rohingya refugees, 57 cyclone centres have been prepared to provide shelter. The government has also closed all schools in the region until further notice to ensure public safety.

The cyclone has disrupted transport and trade, with the suspension of loading and unloading activities at Chittagong port and the relocation of ships to the deep sea. Domestic flights to and from Cox's Bazar have also been cancelled as a precautionary measure.

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