Bangladesh and India are on high alert as they brace for the arrival of the first cyclone of the year, with wind speeds reaching up to 120 km/h, according to India’s weather department. The Bangladesh weather office has raised its storm danger signal to the highest level for several ports and coastal districts, issuing warnings to residents through loudspeakers.
The low-lying coastal regions of both countries have faced frequent severe storms in recent years, with Cyclone Yaas in 2021 causing significant damage and displacement. In preparation for the incoming cyclone, Bangladesh has mobilized thousands of cyclone shelters and volunteers, aiming to mitigate the potential impact on vulnerable communities.
India has also taken proactive measures, deploying disaster relief forces in the eastern state of West Bengal. Flights have been suspended in Kolkata, one of the major metropolitan cities in the region, as precautionary measures are implemented.
While parts of West Bengal have already begun experiencing moderate rainfall, life in Kolkata remains relatively normal, according to weather officials. However, the government has canceled leave for employees in essential services as a precautionary measure.
Pictures shared on social media platforms depict the efforts of disaster management teams, including the alerting of tourists at beaches in West Bengal, underscoring the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of natural disasters.
As both countries await the cyclone’s landfall, coordinated efforts between regional meteorological centers and disaster management agencies aim to minimize the potential impact on lives and infrastructure. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing monitoring and response efforts essential to ensure the safety and well-being of affected communities.
