The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Cyclone Remal, which initially intensified into a severe cyclonic storm, has weakened to a cyclonic storm as of early Monday morning. The storm, which caused significant disruption along the coasts of Bangladesh and West Bengal, is expected to weaken further.
The IMD’s latest update stated, “Severe Cyclonic Storm Remal over Coastal Bangladesh and adjoining Coastal West Bengal weakened into Cyclonic Storm at 0530 hrs of 27 May about 70 km northeast of Canning and 30 km west-southwest of Mongla. The system is likely to gradually weaken further.”
Cyclone Remal made landfall between Sagar Islands in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh between 10:30 pm on May 26 and 12:30 am on May 27. At landfall, the storm’s wind speeds were recorded at 110-120 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 135 kmph.
As of 4:30 am on Monday, the cyclone was centred over Coastal Bangladesh and adjoining Coastal West Bengal. Moving north-northeastwards, it is anticipated to weaken further in the coming hours, according to the IMD.
The storm brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to coastal regions of India and Bangladesh, causing widespread power outages. Many electricity poles were uprooted, and transformers were damaged, leaving millions without power. Authorities noted significant structural damage, including roofs of thatched huts being blown away and mud houses flattened.
In response to the impending cyclone, authorities evacuated approximately 110,000 people to safety shelters. The Indian Navy prepared ships, aircraft, divers, and medical supplies for immediate deployment if needed. In Kolkata, over 50 international and domestic flights were cancelled due to flooding in operational areas of the airport. The city also experienced severe water logging due to heavy rains. The Sundarbans region faced severe impact, with high tides breaching protective river embankments at multiple locations, leading to substantial damage.
