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Brisbane Braces for First Cyclone to hit Australian Coast in 51 Years

March 5, 2025, 1:04 pm

Residents of Brisbane, Australia, were bracing for a once-in-a-blue-moon tropical cyclone, the first in 51 years to strike the region. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to strike late Thursday or early Friday, passing between Brisbane and Gold Coast with 95 kph sustained winds, gusts reaching 130 kph, and the threat of severe coastal erosion, flooding, and storm surges.

The cyclone is unusual for southeast Queensland, which does not usually experience tropical storms. Cyclone Zoe had hit the Gold Coast in 1974, resulting in widespread flooding. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pointed out the uniqueness of the event, citing the necessity for preparation. His government is providing 250,000 sandbags to Queensland, adding to 80,000 already provided by the military.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner cautioned that as many as 20,000 houses in the city may be flooded, and evacuation centers will be established for those who need to be evacuated. Schools, public transport, and non-urgent surgeries in hospitals will be shut. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli urged residents to take the threat seriously, saying evacuations were already underway in the region.

Cyclones are common in Queensland’s tropical north but very rare in the state’s temperate south-east corner,” Albanese said. “That’s why it’s so important this preparatory work is done.

Cyclone Chido Hits France’s Mayotte ‘Like The Apocalypse’: 1,000 Feared Dead

December 16, 2024, 4:48 pm

The French overseas territory of Mayotte, located between Madagascar and Mozambique in the Indian Ocean, is grappling with the aftermath of the most catastrophic cyclone in 90 years. Cyclone Chido, packing winds of up to 225 km/h (140 mph), has wreaked havoc on the island, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. Authorities are bracing for a devastating toll, with at least 1,000 people feared dead.

Significant Damage to Infrastructure and Health Services

Cyclone Chido’s fury has left Mayotte’s infrastructure in ruins. The island’s airport has been severely damaged, while electricity, water, and communication services have been completely cut off. François-Xavier Bieuville, head of the local administration, has warned that the final death toll could reach “close to a thousand or even several thousand.”

The island’s central hospital and other health centers have also been heavily affected. French Health Minister Geneviève Darrieussecq revealed that the main hospital experienced major water damage, including the destruction of critical care areas such as the surgical, intensive care, maternity, and emergency units. Many medical centers are now non-operational, further complicating rescue and recovery efforts.

A Race Against Time for Rescue Operations

As rescuers race against time to reach those trapped across the island, the situation is becoming increasingly dire. Mayotte, one of the poorest French territories, has been particularly vulnerable to the cyclone’s devastation. Around a third of the population lives in informal shantytowns, which were hit hardest by the storm. Many of these makeshift homes, constructed from metallic sheets, have been completely destroyed, leaving families homeless.

The French Red Cross has described the situation as “chaotic,” with much of the island’s slums being completely obliterated. Eric Sam Vah, a representative from the French Red Cross, said, “Most of the slums have been totally destroyed. And we haven’t received any reports of displaced people. So the reality could be terrible in the coming days.”

Challenges in Reaching Vulnerable Populations

In addition to the widespread destruction, the Cyclone Chido has also exacerbated the difficulties of reaching vulnerable populations. Approximately 100,000 people in Mayotte are believed to be living illegally on the island. Many of them are now in hiding out of fear of being deported, further complicating efforts to provide aid and conduct rescue operations. The presence of illegal residents means that some areas are likely to be inaccessible, slowing down the rescue process.

As the island begins to recover from this unprecedented disaster, authorities are focusing on saving as many lives as possible and providing emergency assistance to the survivors. However, the scale of the destruction and the challenges of reaching all affected areas mean that the full extent of the damage is still unfolding. The coming days will be critical as rescuers continue their efforts to save lives and bring aid to the island’s residents.

Cyclone Fengal: Grandfather Uses OLA Scooter to Ferry Grandkids Through Floodwater

December 4, 2024, 1:28 pm

A heartwarming video of a granddad taking his grandchildren along flooded waters in an inflatable boat has made waves all over the internet. According to X user @Chai_Angelic, who shared this video, it has raked up 137.9K views and the comments are mostly positive. A grandfather can be seen tugging the inflatable boat around with his OLA electric scooter through a waterlogged complex while his grandkids make merry and giggle out loud.

Flooding in Chennai and its surroundings is caused by heavy rain from Cyclone Fengal. Heavy rain has made life so hectic, but this granddad made it an enjoyable moment. The video of the scene has gained praise on the web, with people referring to the moment as “adorable.” One of the comments said, “GenZ grandfather,” and another said, “Never thought a cyclone could be this fun.”

Watch:

Grandfather with his grandchildren.❤️
Chennai, cyclone ..??? pic.twitter.com/2VFz3Oc3jq

— Chutki Chaiwali?? (@Chai_Angelic) December 3, 2024

Cyclone Fengal has brought southern state to a standstill with highways closed, flights delayed, and landslides reported. Pictures of flooded waters swallowing buses and other vehicles have surfaced, some of which were swept away by the forceful current. The highest rain was seen in Viluppuram with 51 cm, where widespread flooding has occurred. Here in Puducherry, 50,000 houses have been flooded, while in Thattanjavadi, more than hundred houses had water entering them with all belongings floating.

Cyclone Dana: Netizens Post Shocking Videos of Devastating Heavy Rain

October 25, 2024, 1:37 pm

Cyclone Dana is approaching coastal Odisha, bringing tidal surges and heavy rainfall to parts of West Bengal and Odisha. According to the India Meteorological Department’s forecast, the districts of Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, and Balasore in Odisha are expected to face the storm’s worst impacts.

As the effects of Cyclone Biparjoy continue, many individuals have taken to X to share videos showcasing the weather conditions in their areas.

Watch the visuals shared by X users:

This is Odisha. Every time, invaders destroy us, we rise again. Be it Asoka, drought or cyclone. This year, we have ‘Dana’ which is now unleashing itself (@Rajnagar). Trees will be uprooted, paddy fields injured, communications disrupted, but there will be zero loss to life. pic.twitter.com/jPW8FRuprt

— Ashesh_Padhy (@PadhyAshesh) October 24, 2024

JUST IN✨️
Devastating #Danacyclone touching land at Raj Nagar , Gupti , Odisha now. See how cyclone demolishing trees.#DANA #Odisha @MohanMOdisha pic.twitter.com/ZALMP1MkT1

— SaNJaY? (@Amlan2022) October 24, 2024

Paradip see beach. #CycloneDana @NewIndianXpress @XpressOdisha pic.twitter.com/M9kWQT4AhU

— Tanmay Das (@tanmay__das) October 24, 2024

Precautionary Measures as Landfall Approaches

The cyclonic storm is anticipated to make landfall on Friday morning, prompting authorities in Odisha and West Bengal to ramp up precautionary measures. Residents from coastal regions are being evacuated, and educational institutions are closing. Cyclone Dana is expected to hit between Puri and Sagar Island early on October 25, with wind speeds reaching 100-110 mph and gusts possibly hitting 120 mph.

Major Disruptions in Transportation

In response to Cyclone Dana, Indian Railways has canceled over 300 trains. “Railways have taken numerous steps in preparation for Cyclone Dana. The Railway Minister has reviewed our preparations and directed us to minimize traffic disruptions so we can manage the situation effectively,” stated General Manager of East Coast Railway, Parmeshwar Funkwal, to PTI.

Also Read: Cyclone Dana: Woman ‘Piggybacks’ Elderly Villager To Safety, Video Goes Viral

Flight Operations Halted at Kolkata Airport

Kolkata airport authorities have announced a suspension of flight operations for 15 hours starting at 6 pm on Thursday due to the anticipated effects of Cyclone Dana. An official explained that this decision prioritizes the safety of passengers, airline personnel, equipment, navigational aids, and infrastructure. “In view of Cyclone Dana’s impact on West Bengal’s coastal region, including Kolkata, flight operations will be suspended from 6 pm on 24 October to 9 am on 25 October due to predicted heavy winds and heavy to very heavy rainfall,” an Airports Authority of India (AAI) spokesperson said.

Watch: Cyclone Dana Triggers High Tidal Waves In West Bengal’s Old Digha Beach

October 25, 2024, 10:27 am

Gusty winds and heavy rainfall battered various regions across Odisha and West Bengal as Cyclone Dana made landfall in Odisha, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Videos and photos capturing the storm’s impact have circulated widely on social media, showing intense tidal surges along with severe damage to local infrastructure. One particularly striking video, shared by ANI, depicts high waves crashing onto West Bengal’s Old Digha beach, where the tides reach unusually high levels and strike the coastline with immense force.

IMD Issues Updates and Alerts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been closely tracking Cyclone Dana’s path, issuing timely updates through social media. According to an earlier statement, the IMD reported, “The severe cyclonic storm ‘Dana’ moved north-northwestwards with a speed of 12 kmph and lay centred over north coastal Odisha, about 15 km north of Dhamara.” The department added that the cyclone is expected to shift west-northwest, gradually weakening into a cyclonic storm by midday on October 25, under the continuous watch of the Doppler weather radar at Paradip.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

#WATCH | West Bengal | High tide waves hit Purba Medinipur, Old Digha beach, as the landfall process of #CycloneDana began pic.twitter.com/6iJg17964Z

— ANI (@ANI) October 25, 2024

Social Media Reacts with Concern

The video of the surging tides has garnered significant attention online, sparking concern and prayers for those affected by Cyclone Dana. Many viewers have taken to the comments to share their anxieties and send well-wishes. One concerned individual wrote, “Praying for everyone’s safety. We are not ready to hear a single tragic news.”

Cyclone Dana to Hit Odisha Tonight, Thousands Evacuated

October 24, 2024, 6:55 pm

Officials from the River Traffic Police and Disaster Management Group (DMG) are making announcements along the banks of the Hooghly River in Kolkata as Cyclone Dana approaches landfall on October 23, 2024. Heavy rainfall has already affected parts of West Bengal and Odisha in anticipation of the cyclone’s impact later tonight.

Cyclone Dana has intensified into a severe storm with wind speeds ranging from 88 to 117 km/h. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is likely to move north-northwestward and will cross the coasts of north Odisha and West Bengal between Puri and Sagar Island. The landfall is expected to occur near Bhitarkanika and Dhamara, Odisha, between midnight on October 24 and the morning of October 25.

In preparation, Odisha has already evacuated over a million people from vulnerable areas. Bhubaneswar Airport has suspended operations for 17 hours, from October 24 until 9 AM on October 25, leading to the cancellation or rescheduling of approximately 45 flights.

To mitigate the potential impact of Cyclone Dana, 182 fire and rescue teams have been mobilized across 14 districts expected to experience the storm’s worst effects.

Gujarat Floods: Could Cyclone ‘Asna’ Intensify The Crisis? What Is Its Current Location?

August 31, 2024, 12:29 pm

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning on Saturday regarding Cyclone ‘Asna,’ a deep depression over the Arabian Sea causing heavy rainfall in Gujarat. The cyclone is anticipated to drift west-northwest over the northeast Arabian Sea, moving away from the Indian coast within the next 24 hours.

Current Location of Cyclone ‘Asna’

As of 5:30 AM on August 31 (Saturday), Cyclone ‘Asna’ was positioned about 310 km west of Naliya (Gujarat) and 200 km southwest of Karachi (Pakistan). The storm is expected to continue its west-northwest movement over the northeast and northwest Arabian Sea, eventually shifting west-southwestward in the next 24 hours.

Impact of Cyclone ‘Asna’ on Gujarat

Cyclone ‘Asna,’ which formed off the Kutch coast in Gujarat, has moved into the Arabian Sea without causing major impacts in the region. However, the IMD has issued the following warnings:

Squally Winds: Winds with speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are expected along the Saurashtra and Kachchh coasts on August 31 and September 1.
Rough Sea Conditions: Rough to very rough sea conditions are likely along the Gujarat and adjacent north Maharashtra coasts until the evening of August 31.
Fishing Advisory: Fishermen are advised against venturing into the northeast and adjoining east-central Arabian Sea, and along and off the Gujarat and north Maharashtra coasts, until August 31.

Rainfall and Flooding

Kachchh has experienced very heavy rainfall in the past 24 hours. Since June 1, Gujarat has recorded 882 mm of rainfall, which is 50 percent above the normal level, according to IMD scientist Ramashray Yadav. Saurashtra and Kachchh have also seen higher-than-normal rainfall. Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar are expected to have light to moderate rainfall on Saturday.

Rescue Efforts

In Jamnagar, flooding has closed the road connecting Padana Patiya to Changa Patiya, and a small bridge over Sir PN Road has been washed away, disrupting traffic. In response to the flooding, six Indian Army columns are conducting rescue operations in the hardest-hit areas. Additionally, a team of 350 sanitation workers from Surat has arrived in Vadodara to assist with cleanup efforts.

PM Modi Reviews Post-Cyclone Remal Situation in Northeastern States

June 2, 2024, 3:23 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting on Sunday to assess the aftermath of Cyclone Remal in the northeastern states. The cyclone led to over three dozen fatalities and widespread devastation, triggering flash floods, heavy rainfall, and landslides that affected more than two lakh people in the region.

During the meeting, PM Modi also discussed various topics, including a review of the new government’s first 100-day agenda and preparations for World Environment Day on June 5. Railway services have been disrupted due to submerged tracks, leading to the cancellation of trains bound for south Assam, Tripura, Manipur, and Mizoram by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR).

Expressing condolences, PM Modi assured support to the affected states and emphasized the Centre’s commitment to monitoring and aiding recovery efforts. Meanwhile, exit polls indicate a significant victory for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, suggesting potential gains in opposition-held territories.

The seven-phase electoral process, spearheaded by PM Modi, concluded on June 1.

Fatalities Reported in Kolkata as Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘Remal Hits Coastal West Bengal

May 27, 2024, 10:35 am

The severe cyclonic storm ‘Remal’ hit the shores between Bangladesh and West Bengal, unleashing winds reaching up to 135 kmph and torrential rains that caused flooding in homes and agricultural lands, leaving behind a path of devastation. In Kolkata, a 51-year-old man lost his life amidst the inundated streets due to continuous downpours.

The landfall process commenced at 8:30 pm on Sunday (May 26) along the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh, stretching from Sagar Island to Khepupara, near the southwest of Mongla in Bangladesh.

‘Remal’ caused widespread destruction, flattening vulnerable dwellings, uprooting trees, and toppling electric poles. Prior to the cyclone’s arrival, over one lakh people were evacuated from at-risk areas in the state.

“Severe cyclonic storm Remal made landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh on Sunday night (May 26) with wind speeds reaching up to 135 kmph,” stated the meteorological office.

Video footage depicted massive tidal waves crashing against the seawall in the coastal town of Digha. Heavy rainfall obscured the expansive coastline as the cyclone hit land, with rising waters sweeping fishing vessels inland and submerging mud-and-thatch residences and agricultural fields in low-lying regions.

Cyclone ‘Remal’: Landfall Process to Commence in Next Few Hours, Says IMD

May 26, 2024, 10:19 pm

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported on Sunday evening that the cyclonic storm “Remal” is presently positioned over the North Bay of Bengal, moving northward at a speed of 16 kmph. It is anticipated to reach land in the coming hours.

IMD specified, “The Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal” (pronounced as “Re-Mal”) over the North Bay of Bengal moved nearly northwards, with a speed of 16 kmph during past 06 hours and lay centered at 1730 hrs IST of today, the 26th May, 2024, over the same region near latitude 21.15°N and longitude 89.2°E about 125 km east-southeast of Sagar Islands (West Bengal), 140 km southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh), 135 km south-southeast of Canning (West Bengal) and 155 km south-southwest of Mongla (Bangladesh).”

“The outer cloud band lies over coastal areas of Bangladesh & West Bengal, India. The landfall process will commence in next few hours,” they added.

According to the IMD, the cyclonic storm, Remal, currently exhibits an intensity near the center of 110-120 Kmph, with gusts up to 135 Kmph.

“It is very likely to continue to move nearly northwards and cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara, close to southwest of Mongla (Bangladesh) by midnight of today, the 26th May 2024 as a severe cyclonic storm with maximum sustained wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph,” IMD said.

The IMD also warned of gale wind speeds reaching 90-100 kmph, gusting to 110 kmph, along and off Bangladesh, West Bengal, and adjoining North Odisha coasts, likely escalating to 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph within the next 2 hours.

The impending landfall of cyclone Remal has caused substantial disruptions in air, rail, and road transportation in Kolkata and other parts of South Bengal. As a precautionary measure, Kolkata airport authorities suspended flight operations for 21 hours from Sunday noon.

The most affected regions include West Bengal, Coastal Bangladesh, Tripura, and some other parts of northeastern states. Residents in these areas, as well as neighboring states, are advised to prepare for adverse weather conditions starting from May 26.

‘By Tomorrow Night, It Will Develop Into A Severe Cyclonic Storm’: Mrutyunjay Mohapatra Warns About Cyclone In Bengal

May 24, 2024, 5:46 pm

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for a potential severe cyclonic storm expected to affect the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh in the coming days. The IMD had previously issued a yellow alert for several districts of West Bengal and a red alert for fishermen in the state.

Director General of Meteorology, IMD, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra says, “Today morning, a depression developed in the Bay of Bengal… It has slowly started moving towards north-north-east directions. As it starts moving northwards tomorrow, it will intensify and develop into a cyclone storm tomorrow morning. And by tomorrow night, it will develop into a severe cyclonic storm. By the midnight of 26 May, it will hit coastal areas of West Bengal when the wind speed will be 110-120 kmph. The wind speed is expected to be higher in Bangladesh. In the North and South 24 Parganas and East Medinipur districts of West Bengal wind speed will be highest. As a result, light to moderate rainfall will begin tomorrow. On 26-27 May, in addition to heavy to very heavy rainfall in West Bengal, extremely heavy rainfall is also expected. Coastal areas of North Odisha can witness isolated heavy rainfall and the kind speed will be 40-50 kmph… Rainfall will lash all the northeastern states and there is extreme rainfall warning in some areas…”

Tripura: IMD Issues Heavy Rainfall, Cyclone Alert Between May 24-27

May 24, 2024, 5:13 pm

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for heavy rainfall and predicted a cyclonic storm in parts of north eastern India.

As per the weather department, significant climate changes are expected due to a developing low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal from May 24 to May 27.

Director and head of Meteorological Department, Agartala, Dr Partha Roy, to ANI.

“South and Gomati districts will experience heavy to extremely heavy rain on May 26. North, Unakoti, Dhalai, and Khowai districts will experience similar rainfall conditions on May 27. Winds of 40-50 kmph may accompany the rain.”
Speaking on the Cyclonic Development, Partha Roy said, “The low-pressure system is expected to intensify into a depression by May 24 and a cyclonic storm by May 25. It will likely move northeastwards, reaching near the Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts by the evening of May 26 as a severe cyclonic storm.”

Roy further informed about the wind warnings and said, “Squally winds (40-50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph) are forecast for the central Bay of Bengal on May 23, increasing to 60-70 kmph, gusting to 80 kmph, by May 25.
Winds could reach 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph, over the north Bay of Bengal by May 26.”
The weather department has issued an advisory to authorities and residents and said, “Authorities and residents are advised to stay alert and take precautions. Fishermen should avoid venturing into the sea.”

The IMD on X said that a well-marked low pressure system over the central Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression as of 5:30 AM on Friday.
“Likely to move northeastwards and intensify further into a cyclone over east-central BoB by the 25 morning. Subsequently, it would move nearly northwards, intensify into a severe cyclone by 25 evening,” IMD said.
The IMD on X said that a well-marked low pressure system over the central Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression as of 5:30 AM on Friday.

Depression over central BoB moved with speed of 20kmp during past 03 hours and is about 730km south southwest of Khepupara and 750km south of Canning.
Likely to continue to move northeastwards and intensify to cyclonic storm over eastcentral Bay of Bengal by 25th May morning. pic.twitter.com/AUNOk0kY5i

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) May 24, 2024

“Likely to move northeastwards and intensify further into a cyclone over east-central BoB by the 25 morning. Subsequently, it would move nearly northwards, intensify into a severe cyclone by 25 evening,” IMD said.

The IMD further added, “Continuing to move nearly northward, it is very likely to cross the Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara around midnight on May 26 as a severe cyclonic storm.

Jamnagar : 119 teams of PGVCL working to restore power supply

June 16, 2023, 4:09 pm

In Gujarat’s Jamnagar district, cyclone Biparjoy’s powerful winds and rain have resulted in a power outage. Teams from PGVCL (Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Limited) are working hard on Friday to fix the problem.119 PGVCL teams are now functioning in the Jamnagar district. 958 feeders, 1255 electric poles, and 40 TC (Current Transformers) have all been damaged in the district as a result of the severe winds.

LK Parmar, PGVCL Superintendent Engineer for Jamnagar pocket informed that more than 1200 electric poles fell in Jamnagar and more than 2700 poles have fallen in Devbhumi Dwarka. Currently, Devbhumi Dwarka is in a complete blackout.
Out of the damaged property, 414 feeders, 221 electric poles and one TC were made operational immediately. The power supply was restored in 367 villages of Jamnagar district. The one current transformer that was made functional promptly was located in Kalavad taluka of Jamnagar.

NDRF reports showed that at least 23 people had been injured and 24 animal lives were lost as an impact of the landfall. Two people were killed before the landfall, and no human deaths have been reported thereafter.

To prevent any risk to life, the power supply has been put on hold in 226 villages. PGVCL teams are working at other places where power has been disrupted. In places where the power supply has been disrupted, operations have been started on a war footing by 119 teams of PGVCL.Fortunately, no death has been reported so far in Jamnagar due to the Biparjoy cyclone. Six people have received minor injuries and three kutcha houses have been damaged. Around 1,230 electric poles have been damaged and 164 trees have fallen. The Gujarat CM ordered the District Collectors of affected areas to conduct surveys to assess the damage in their districts.

Cyclone Biparjoy intensifies into ‘very severe’ cyclonic storm

June 11, 2023, 1:23 pm

The India Meteorological Department reported on Sunday that the extremely dangerous cyclonic storm Biparjoy has been moving north-northeastward at a speed of eight kilometres per hour during the past six hours.

“It is very likely to move nearly northwards till Wednesday morning, then move north-northeastwards and cross Saurashtra and Kutch and adjoining Pakistan coasts between Mandvi (Gujarat) and Karachi (Pakistan) around noon of 15th June as a very severe cyclonic storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 125-135 kmph gusting to 150 kmph,” the Met Department said.In Thane, Mumbai, and Palghar, the IMD has issued an alert. Additionally, from 11 June to 14 June, fisherman in coastal areas have been urged to exercise caution.

IMD : Cyclone Biparjoy will intensify and move northward

June 8, 2023, 10:22 am

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the extremely severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy would intensify further and move north-northwestward. In a notice, IMD said, “VSCS BIPARJOY over east-central Arabian Sea, lay centred at 0530hrs IST of 08th June, near lat 13.9N & long 66.0E, about 860km west-southwest of Goa, 910km southwest of Mumbai, would intensify further & move north-northwestwards.” In its earlier bulletin, IMD said the cyclone would intensify further gradually during the next 48 hours and move nearly north-northwestwards during the next 3 days.
“VSCS BIPARJOY over the east-central Arabian Sea, lay centred at 2330hrs IST of 07 Jun 2023 near lat 13.6N & long 66.0E, about 870km west-southwest of Goa, 930km sw of Mumbai. It would intensify further gradually during next 48hrs & move nearly north-northwestwards during next 3days,” tweeted IMD.
Fishermen are advised not to venture into such cyclone-hit areas in the Arabian Sea and those who are out at sea are advised to return to the coast, the IMD said earlier.

Early warning, preparedness likely saved thousands of lives during Cyclone Mocha

May 17, 2023, 2:47 am

Early warnings from weather agencies and better preparedness by local governments and aid agencies likely saved thousands of lives during a powerful cyclone that slammed into Bangladesh and Myanmar over the weekend. But there are concerns about a large number of people still unaccounted for in areas where preparations were lacking.
At the world’s largest refugee camp in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar district, thousands of Rohingya from Myanmar were moved to safer areas until Cyclone Mocha passed. But at camps for displaced Rohingya in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, where the storm hit harder, the presence of aid agencies is spotty and help from the country’s military government negligible. Only about two dozen deaths have been reported by media in Myanmar, but many people remain missing from the camps, which were reportedly heavily damaged by storm surges.

Cyclone Mocha floods homes in Myanmar, at least 700 injured

May 16, 2023, 4:32 am

Rescuers early Monday evacuated about 1,000 people trapped by seawater 3.6 meters (12 feet) deep along western Myanmar’s coast after a powerful cyclone injured hundreds and cut off communications. Damage and six deaths have been reported but the true impact was not yet clear in one of Asia’s least developed countries.

Strong winds injured more than 700 of about 20,000 people who were sheltering in sturdier buildings on the highlands of Sittwe township such as monasteries, pagodas and schools, according to a leader of the Rakhine Youths Philanthropic Association in Sittwe.

He asked not to be named due to fear of reprisals from the authorities in the military-run country. Seawater raced into more than 10 low-lying wards near the shore as Cyclone Mocha made landfall in Rakhine state Sunday afternoon, he said. Residents moved to roofs and higher floors, while the wind and storm surge prevented immediate rescue.

“After 4 p.m. yesterday, the storm weakened a bit, but the water did not fall back. Most of them sat on the roof and at the high places of their houses the whole night. The wind blew all night,” the rescue group leader said. Water was still about 1.5 meters (5 feet) high in flooded areas later Monday, but rescues were being made as the wind calmed and the sun rose in the sky. He asked civil society organizations and authorities to send aid and help evacuate residents. Six deaths were reported by Myanmar media and rescue groups.

Several injuries were reported in neighbouring Bangladesh, which was spared the predicted direct hit. Mocha made landfall near Sittwe township with winds blowing up to 209 kilometers (130 miles) per hour, Myanmar’s Meteorological Department said. By midday Monday, it had weakened to a tropical depression, according to the India Meteorological Department. The State Administration Council issued disaster declarations for 17 townships in Rakhine state. High winds crumpled cell phone towers, but in videos collected by local media before communications were lost, deep water raced through streets and wind blew off roofs.

Cyclone Mocha: Bangladesh’s St Martin’s island may go underwater temporarily

May 14, 2023, 1:30 pm

As Cyclone Mocha intensifies and winds are getting stronger, Saint Martin’s, the one and only coral island of Bangladesh, may go temporarily underwater, according to the head of the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), reported Dhaka Tribune.

“Since there is no major infrastructure on the island, the storm will not get obstructed anywhere and hit the island directly. As the centre of the storm passes over St Martin’s, water will move from one side of the island to the other, and due to the intensity of the storm, the island may be underwater for some time,” BMD Director Md Azizur Rahman said on Sunday. He added, “But the water will not stay still; it may also move away. The situation depends entirely on the speed of the storm.”

Meteorologist Shahinul Islam stated the bulk and centre of the storm would pass over Myanmar and the rest would lash Cox’s Bazar coast, as per Dhaka Tribune.
In its morning bulletin, the BMS said that very severe cyclonic storm Mocha over east-central Bay and adjoining areas had moved north-northeastwards, intensified over northeast Bay and adjoining areas and was centred at 6 am about 385 km south-southwest of Chittagong port, 305 km south-southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 450km south of Mongla port and 370km south of Payra port.The peripheral effect of Cyclone Mocha began on Sunday morning over the coastal areas of Chattorgram and Barishal divisions, according to the latest bulletin of Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

Cyclone Freddy rips through Africa’s Malawi, claiming 190 lives

March 15, 2023, 4:17 pm

Tropical Cyclone Freddy tore through southern Malawi, killing at least 190 people, according to local officials on Tuesday. Survivors are still searching for loved ones in the worst-hit areas. In the nation, 37 individuals have been reported missing and at least 584 injuries.

The cyclone is “weakening but will continue to produce torrential rains coupled with windy conditions in most areas of Southern Malawi districts,” according to a statement from the Malawi Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change on Tuesday.

The scenario in southern Malawi has gotten worse, according to Charles Kalemba, a commissioner for the Department of Disaster Management Affairs agency, who spoke to CNN on Tuesday. “Today is worse. A number of locations are flooding and a number of roads and bridges are cut. Nearly no visibility is present. Both the network and the electricity are out. It’s getting worse and worse,” Kalemba said, adding that bad weather has also hampered relief efforts.

“It’s hard. Machines are required (for recovery operations), but the rain prevents them from reaching the areas where they were intended to be excavated, Kalemba continued. Kalemba continued by saying that Wednesday should see a change in the weather. “The cyclone might have gone by tomorrow. Although today is worse, we expect tomorrow to be better. There is a lot of water and heavy downpour.

The danger of damaging winds and heavy flooding “remains very high,” according to a warning issued on Monday by Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services.

“Extensive Damage”: New Zealand declares national emergency over Cyclone Gabrielle

February 14, 2023, 4:07 pm

New Zealand declared a national state of emergency for only the third time in its history on Tuesday as Cyclone Gabrielle caused widespread flooding, landslides and huge ocean swells, forcing evacuations and stranding people on rooftops. There were about 225,000 people without electricity.

After the declaration, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins told reporters, “It has been a big night for New Zealanders across the country, but notably in the upper North Island… a lot of families displaced, a lot of homes without electricity, and extensive damage done across the country.” Gabrielle is forecast to continue heading southeast, nearly parallel to the coast, as of 3 p.m., when it was about 100 miles (160 km) southeast of Auckland, on the country’s North Island. Much of the east coast of the North Island and upper South Island are still under weather warnings. The worst of the storm has passed through New Zealand, according to disaster management minister Kieran McAnulty, but more rain and strong winds are still to come. He noted that the nation was experiencing severe flooding, landslides, and infrastructural destruction. Substations and electrical networks have been damaged, according to transmission firms around the nation. According to Megan Woods, minister of energy, 225,000 people lack access to power. While rivers continue to swell and tremendous surf inundates beachfront residences, authorities have evacuated beach villages and are encouraging even more residents to abandon their homes. Some towns are cut off, roads are impassable, and mobile phone coverage is unavailable. Residents in hard-hit areas are being asked to conserve water and food because of fears of shortages. Air New Zealand has again cancelled all domestic flights in and out of Auckland. Helicopter and boat crews were rescuing people trapped by rapidly rising flood water in Hawke’s Bay, southeast of Auckland. Hipkins said it was too early to say how many people had been displaced or injured. No deaths have been confirmed. Media reported one person was missing after a house had slid down a hill in Hawke’s Bay, while the fire and emergency service said a volunteer firefighter was still in a house that had been swept downhill in a landslide. Local media published photographs and video of people sitting on top of buildings surrounded by flood water, of houses swept to the bottom of hills by landslides and of roads under water.

A yacht that activated its emergency beacon this morning near the east coast was rescued by a New Zealand navy. Both the COVID-19 epidemic and the earthquake in New Zealand in 2011 prompted the country to proclaim national emergencies.

Sri Lanka shuts schools as Cyclone Mandous raises pollution

December 9, 2022, 6:39 pm

As Cyclone Mandous passed by its coast, bringing heavy winds and rain along, Sri Lanka shuts its schools owing to high air pollution levels.

Al Jazeera reports that the sky became blue with occasional rain in Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, as well as many other places. Children and the elderly were urged to stay indoors by the health officials. Notably, according to reports, the Sri Lankan weather forecast indicated that there could be heavy showers of over 100mm in the areas of Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, Polonnaruwa, Puttalam, and Maha Illuppallama.

In addition, rains could be anticipated in the Nuwara-Eliya and Kandy districts, the Western and North-Western Provinces, Galle, Matara, Anuradhapura, and Trincomalee.

Due to the effects of the cyclonic storm “Mandous,” the country has unfavourable weather, according to Daily Mirror.

The three districts of Tamil Nadu in India received a red warning, according to officials. Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Kancheepuram are among the districts that are under alert.

The officials also advised the general masses to check with the concerned airlines in view of the flights affected due to the extreme weather conditions.
“Kindly take note of the Flight cancellations at Chennai Intl Airport on 09.12.2022 due to adverse weather conditions forecasted. Passengers are requested to check with the concerned airline(s) for further updates. #Chennai #MandousCyclone #Mandous@AAI_Official@pibchennai,” tweeted the Chennai (MAA) Airport.

Amid Mandous alerts, NDRF is on standby in Chennai

December 9, 2022, 3:54 pm

The National Disaster Response Force team was kept on standby in Chennai because of cyclone Mandous.

The teams of NDRF are ready with equipment to take note of any untoward incident.
Talking about the arrangements Sandeep Kumar Sub-Inspector NDRF said, “NDRF is ready to face the Mandous Cyclone situation in Chennai. The NDRF team in Chennai Adayar Indra Nagar has been placed ready where they have packed rescue materials to move when a tough situation arises. Once the alert from state officials is communicated NDRF team will move immediately to the needed spot.”

Meanwhile, for rescue operations, numerous pieces of equipment like boats, High voltage motors, Sucker machines, Cutter machines, etc were kept ready.

In the wake of the Mandous Cyclone, preparation has been made.

Earlier in the day, a red alert has been issued in three districts Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Kancheepuram of Tamil Nadu.

Cyclone ‘Mandous’ is very likely to cross the coast near Mamallapuram with a maximum sustained wind speed of 65-75 kmph gusting to 85 mph today at midnight.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department severe cyclonic storm ‘Mandous’ is expected to move west-northwestwards and cross the coast between Puducherry and Sriharikota on the intervening night of December 9-10.

“It is very likely to maintain its intensity of Severe Cyclonic Storm till early morning of today, the 9th December, and then weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm thereafter. It would continue to move west-northwestwards and cross north Tamilnadu, Puducherry, and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts between Puducherry and Sriharikota around Mahabalipuram as a cyclonic storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 65-75 kmph gusting to 85 mph during midnight of today, the 09th December to early hours of 10th December,” the India Meteorological Department stated.

Meanwhile, most places over the north coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to have heavy rain at isolated places.

The weather forecasting agency said that the severe cyclonic storm is currently lying over the southwest Bay of Bengal, 240km east-southeast of Karaikal.

Moreover, the IMD statement stated, “It is likely to reduce to Light to moderate rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places likely over north Tamil Nadu on 10th December 2022.”

However, till further notice the Greater Chennai Corporation ordered to close of all parks and playgrounds.

Schools shut in Sri Lanka as Mandous cyclonic storm raises pollution

December 9, 2022, 3:27 pm

High air pollution levels forced the closure of schools across Sri Lanka on Friday as a Mandous cyclonic storm swept by its coast, bringing heavy rain and gusts. It is expected to make landfall on India’s southeast coast at around midnight.

As cyclone “Mandous” neared, authorities despatched around 400 disaster relief workers to the state of Tamil Nadu and advised residents to stock up on necessities and get ready to evacuate to shelters.

As the cyclone drew pollution from neighbouring India, the sky in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, and other cities darkened and occasionally rained. As a result, health officials advised the elderly and young to stay inside.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said ‘Mandous’ has weakened from an earlier severe category, but warned that a storm surge of about 0.5 metre above the high tide was likely to inundate low-lying coastal areas of northern Tamil Nadu and neighbouring Puducherry when the cyclone makes landfall.

IMD warned that coastal populations were likely to have damage to thatched, mud dwellings, power and communication lines, and other infrastructure due to the heavy to extremely heavy rainfall that was anticipated in those areas as well as further north along the beaches of Andhra Pradesh state.

As the cyclone moves away from Sri Lanka, the air quality there is likely to improve during Friday and Saturday, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) said in a statement.

IMD issues red alert in 3 Tamil Nadu districts, because of cyclone ‘Mandous’

December 9, 2022, 10:15 am

In view of cyclone ‘Mandous’ a red alert has been issued in three districts Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Kancheepuram of Tamil Nadu.

Cyclone ‘Mandous’ is very likely to cross the coast near Mamallapuram with a maximum sustained wind speed of 65-75 kmph gusting to 85 mph today at midnight.

“It is very likely to maintain its intensity of Severe Cyclonic Storm till early morning of today, the 9th December, and then weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm thereafter. It would continue to move west-northwestwards and cross north Tamilnadu, Puducherry, and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts between Puducherry and Sriharikota around Mahabalipuram as a cyclonic storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 65-75 kmph gusting to 85 kmph during midnight of today, the 09th December to early hours of 10th December,” the India Meteorological Department stated.

Meanwhile, most places over the north coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to have heavy rain at isolated places.

The weather forecasting agency said that the severe cyclonic storm is currently lying over the southwest Bay of Bengal, 240km east-southeast of Karaikal.

However, till further notice the Greater Chennai Corporation ordered to close of all parks and playgrounds.

Indian Coast Guard rescues 20 Bangladeshi fishermen post-landfall of cyclone ‘Sitrang’

October 26, 2022, 3:44 pm

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 20 Bangladeshi fishermen from the sea in a coordinated search and rescue effort on October 25 after being spotted by a Coast Guard Dornier aircraft that was on a surveillance sortie following the landfall of cyclone “Sitrang.”

After their fishing boat capsized, these fishermen who had to be saved were clinging to floating wreckage. According to the existing MoU between the two Coast Guards, they will be given to the Bangladesh Coast Guard.”In a swift coordinated Search & Rescue Operation, @IndiaCoastGuard rescued 20 Bangladeshi fishermen post-landfall of cyclone #Sitrang. Fishermen will be handed over to #Bangladesh in accordance with the existing MoU,” ICG tweeted.

Since Monday night, more than 18 people have perished in various locations throughout Bangladesh as the deadly Cyclone Sitrang made landfall.
The Dhak Tribune claimed that officials from Bangladesh who were closely monitoring the cyclone’s effects said they had made all required preparations, including accurate weather forecasts and prompt evacuation of residents in coastal areas.
Assam’s situation, meantime, is still dire as almost 1100 people from 83 villages have been hit by the deluge brought on by cyclone “Sitrang” on Tuesday.
Due to Cyclone Sitrang’s severe rainfall and storm in Assam, several homes were damaged. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority reports that the storm has had an impact on 1146 individuals.

First post-monsoon cyclonic storm is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal by the weekend

October 19, 2022, 1:11 pm

The first post-monsoon cyclonic storm is expected to form over the west-central Bay of Bengal around the weekend and will impact the coasts of north Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The cyclone will be named Sitrang once it has formed.

According to Ananda Kumar Das, head of IMD’s cyclone monitoring division, cyclones in the post-monsoon season have been more severe than those in the pre-monsoon season over the last 20 years. “So, we are expecting this system also to intensify further.”

A low-pressure area was expected to form over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal, then move west-northwestwards and concentrate into a depression over the Central Bay of Bengal by Saturday morning. According to IMD, it was very likely to intensify into a cyclone over the westcentral Bay of Bengal later.

Das stated that there is currently a lot of disagreement among models regarding the location of the cyclone. “…but most of them are indicating that the location is likely to be between north Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal coasts. It is expected to make landfall on October 25 [Tuesday] but as of today [Tuesday] we are not forecasting any location for landfall because the system has not developed yet.”

Das stated that the atmospheric and oceanic conditions were favourable for the development of cyclones. “The Bay’s sea surface temperature is also higher than usual.” Furthermore, from October 22 to 25, this system will be moving over the ocean, which can provide it with a lot of energy.”

Separately, conditions were expected to improve for further monsoon withdrawal from more parts of Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Jharkhand, interior Odisha, and the entire West Bengal, while isolated heavy rainfall was expected to continue in some parts of the south Peninsular this week.