Cyclone Amphan hit India’s coast as the country and neighboring Bangladesh are struggling with coronavirus infections. The storm also caused floods in Sri Lanka.
Already grappling with effects of a global pandemic, South Asia is now confronting another major cause for concern: Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, is churning over the Bay of Bengal and about to bear down on the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India. With Cyclone Amphan headed for the coast, its path over the next six to eight hours will be a crucial factor in determining just how dangerous the storm becomes, according to Pradeep Jena, the special relief commissioner for India’s Odisha state. The cyclone which comes amid a devastating coronavirus surge complicates India’s efforts to deal with these crises just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India’s west coast and killed more than 150 people. In Bangladesh, 10 million people were affected by Cyclone Amphan and at least 25 people were killed. Over a million people were affected by Amphan across nine districts in the divisions of and , with the cyclone causing an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage; the | 25 people were killed. Over a million people were affected by Amphan across nine districts in the divisions of and , with the cyclone causing an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage; the Bangladeshi government predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll. Bangladesh’s low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, and India’s east are regularly battered by cyclones that have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades. In Bangladesh, meanwhile, the country's disaster management minister and other media outlets that they expect to evacuate about 2 million people from regions sitting in the cyclone's path. These are the latest updates on :   Cyclone Amphan is a disaster bigger than Covid-19, said Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of the east Indian state of West Bengal. The Indian government has said the cyclone’s strong winds, heavy rainfall and tidal waves are likely to cause “large scale and extensive damage” across multiple districts in West | of West Bengal. The Indian government has said the cyclone’s strong winds, heavy rainfall and tidal waves are likely to cause “large scale and extensive damage” across multiple districts in West Bengal. Last May, nearly 100 people died in Cyclone Amphan, the most powerful storm in more than 10 years to hit eastern India, including West Bengal. “Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centres and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters,” said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh’s junior disaster management minister. Amphan's forecast track placed 38.9 million people in India and Bangladesh at risk of exposure to the storm's winds, according to the US . “A storm of this magnitude with the amount of rainfall and the storm surge on the coast could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh,” he said. More than 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, as Cyclone Amphan approaches land. West | could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh,” he said. More than 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, as Cyclone Amphan approaches land. West Bengal, the epicenter of the cyclone's landfall, saw the most widespread damage from Amphan. | The storm has led to the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations and possibly deaths. It’s the first named tropical cyclone of the year in the region, and a natural disaster like this couldn’t have come at a worse time as India is the global . The cyclone also caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India. By The storm flooded streets and damaged buildings in coastal areas. Due to the very large area of over the cyclone, it dumped heavy rainfall over the southern portions of the country. By Hundreds of thousands have been evacuated as Cyclone Amphan approaches, one of the region’s most powerful storms in decades. Natural disasters during the month , with 328 either dead or missing. By People braved high winds and heavy rain to clear debris as the storm tore through the region. By An unusually strong storm could potentially cause “catastrophic flooding,” landslides and widespread loss of power throughout the islands, the National | of Cyclone Michaung, many parts of Chennai continued to reel under severe flooding, water-logging, and power outages. Torrential rain and the aftermath of Cyclone Remal led to widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption of infrastructure in Assam and Manipur, affecting thousands of people. Cyclone Michaung LIVE: As per IMD Chennai, Heavy rain is likely to occur at one or two places over Nilgiris and Ghat areas of Coimbatore districts. The cyclone brought heavy to very heavy rains over north coastal Tamil Nadu starting 23 November 2020. The city has been witnessing “major flood" situations, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Cyclone Michaung LIVE: Indian spinning ace Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday waded into the ongoing flood situation in his native Chennai and also shared a video clip carrying a message on climate change on his social media handle. The IMD issued cyclone warnings off the coast of Tamil Nadu, and . In our Get Real India, watch this ground report from Chennai,
Cyclone Amphan hit India’s coast as the country and neighboring Bangladesh are struggling with coronavirus infections. The storm also caused floods in Sri Lanka.
new video loaded:Cyclone Amphan Makes Landfall
Cyclone Amphan Makes Landfall
Cyclone Amphan hit India’s coast as the country and neighboring Bangladesh are struggling with coronavirus infections. The storm also caused floods in Sri Lanka.
Natural Disasters
Recent Episodes
Landslide in Wyoming Causes Part of a Highway to Collapse
Earthquakes in Taiwan Damage Buildings
‘No Water in the Hydrants’: Communities Left Defenseless Against Chile’s Deadliest Wildfire
Forest Fires Destroy 1,000 Homes and Kill Dozens in Central Chile
Giant Waves Surge Into U.S. Military Base in the Marshall Islands
Heavy Rain and Flooding Leads to Major Damages in San Diego
Libya Flood Victims: ‘I Survived by a Miracle’
Gridlock, Confusion and Waiting: On the Road With Spanish Rescuers in Morocco
A Moroccan Village Waited Days for Aid. Residents Say There’s No One Left to Save.
Maui Resident Tried to Save Home Before the Water Shut Off
Wildfires Leave Greek Island in Ashes
Flooding From Cyclone Freddy Hampers Recovery Efforts
Cyclone Freddy Wreaks Disaster in Malawi
Powerful New Earthquake Hits Southern Turkey
Rescuers in Turkey Pull Earthquake Survivors From Rubble
‘This Is Our Fate’: A Syrian Family Is Displaced in Southern Turkey
Footage Shows Devastation in Turkey Following Earthquake
Rescuers in Turkey Search For Earthquake Survivors
Deadly Earthquake Shakes Syria
Powerful Earthquake Kills Hundreds in Turkey and Syria
‘We Lost Everything,’ Resident Says After Deadly Mudslides in Brazil
Melbourne Surveys Earthquake Damage
Residents Evacuate Goma After Warning of Volcanic Eruption
Video Shows Volcano Eruption in Southern Caribbean
0:26
Landslide in Wyoming Causes Part of a Highway to Collapse
0:16
Earthquakes in Taiwan Damage Buildings
4:47
‘No Water in the Hydrants’: Communities Left Defenseless Against Chile’s Deadliest Wildfire
0:53
Forest Fires Destroy 1,000 Homes and Kill Dozens in Central Chile
0:30
Giant Waves Surge Into U.S. Military Base in the Marshall Islands
0:38
Heavy Rain and Flooding Leads to Major Damages in San Diego
2:16
Libya Flood Victims: ‘I Survived by a Miracle’
1:57
A Moroccan Village Waited Days for Aid. Residents Say There’s No One Left to Save.
0:34
Wildfires Leave Greek Island in Ashes
0:27
Flooding From Cyclone Freddy Hampers Recovery Efforts
Already grappling with effects of a global pandemic, South Asia is now confronting another major cause for concern: Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, is churning over the Bay of Bengal and about to bear down on the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India. With Cyclone Amphan headed for the coast, its path over the next six to eight hours will be a crucial factor in determining just how dangerous the storm becomes, according to Pradeep Jena, the special relief commissioner for India’s Odisha state. The cyclone which comes amid a devastating coronavirus surge complicates India’s efforts to deal with these crises just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India’s west coast and killed more than 150 people. In Bangladesh, 10 million people were affected by Cyclone Amphan and at least 25 people were killed. Over a million people were affected by Amphan across nine districts in the divisions of and , with the cyclone causing an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage; the Bangladeshi government predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll. Bangladesh’s low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, and India’s east are regularly battered by cyclones that have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades. In Bangladesh, meanwhile, the country's disaster management minister and other media outlets that they expect to evacuate about 2 million people from regions sitting in the cyclone's path. These are the latest updates on :   Cyclone Amphan is a disaster bigger than Covid-19, said Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of the east Indian state of West Bengal. The Indian government has said the cyclone’s strong winds, heavy rainfall and tidal waves are likely to cause “large scale and extensive damage” across multiple districts in West Bengal. Last May, nearly 100 people died in Cyclone Amphan, the most powerful storm in more than 10 years to hit eastern India, including West Bengal. “Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centres and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters,” said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh’s junior disaster management minister. Amphan's forecast track placed 38.9 million people in India and Bangladesh at risk of exposure to the storm's winds, according to the US . “A storm of this magnitude with the amount of rainfall and the storm surge on the coast could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh,” he said. More than 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, as Cyclone Amphan approaches land. West Bengal, the epicenter of the cyclone's landfall, saw the most widespread damage from Amphan.
Title: Cyclone Amphan Hits India and Bangladesh Amidst Coronavirus Surge: A Double Disaster

Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has hit the coastal regions of India and Bangladesh, causing floods in Sri Lanka, and adding to the woes of the two countries that are already grappling with the effects of a global pandemic. The cyclone, which comes amid a devastating coronavirus surge, has complicated India’s efforts to deal with these crises, just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India’s west coast and killed more than 150 people.

In India, Cyclone Amphan has caused “large scale and extensive damage” across multiple districts in West Bengal, with the Indian government warning of the cyclone’s strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves. Last May, nearly 100 people died in Cyclone Amphan, the most powerful storm in more than 10 years to hit eastern India, including West Bengal. This time, the authorities have taken no chances and have prepared shelters with social distancing measures in place, with more than 12,000 cyclone centers to accommodate people.

Bangladesh, with its low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, has also been battered by the cyclone, with 10 million people affected and at least 25 people killed. The Bangladeshi government has predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll, with the cyclone causing an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage. The country's disaster management minister has said that they expect to evacuate about 2 million people from regions sitting in the cyclone's path.

The cyclone has also caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India, with hundreds of thousands of people evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, as Cyclone Amphan approaches land. The storm has led to the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations, and possibly deaths, with the Indian government warning of “large scale and extensive damage” across multiple districts in West Bengal.

The cyclone has come at a time when India is already facing a devastating coronavirus surge, with more than 148,000 people infected every day, and the healthcare system struggling to cope with the influx of patients. The cyclone has added to the woes of the authorities, who are now faced with the task of managing both the cyclone and the pandemic.

The cyclone has also caused floods in Sri Lanka, adding to the country's woes, which is already facing an economic crisis. The floods have caused widespread damage to infrastructure and agriculture, with thousands of people displaced from their homes.

The double disaster of the cyclone and the pandemic has highlighted the need for better disaster management and preparedness in the region. The authorities need to ensure that social distancing measures are in place in the shelters to prevent the spread of the virus. The international community also needs to come forward and provide assistance to the affected countries to help them cope with the aftermath of the cyclone and the pandemic.

In conclusion, Cyclone Amphan has hit India and Bangladesh at a time when they are already grappling with the effects of a global pandemic. The cyclone has caused widespread damage to infrastructure and agriculture, and has added to the woes of the authorities who are already struggling to manage the pandemic. The international community needs to come forward and provide assistance to the affected countries to help them cope with the aftermath of the cyclone and the pandemic. The double disaster has highlighted the need for better disaster management and preparedness in the region, with social distancing measures in place in the shelters to prevent the spread of the virus.
Title: Cyclone Amphan Hits India and Bangladesh Amidst Coronavirus Surge: A Double Disaster

Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has hit the coastal regions of India and Bangladesh, causing floods in Sri Lanka, just as the two countries are grappling with the effects of a global pandemic. The cyclone, which comes amid a devastating coronavirus surge, has complicated India’s efforts to deal with these crises, as it is the second major storm to hit the country in just 10 days.

Cyclone Amphan, a category 5 storm, has caused widespread destruction in India's eastern state of West Bengal, with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves causing "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts. The storm has led to the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations, and possibly deaths, with nearly 100 people killed in Cyclone Amphan last year. Over 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha as the cyclone approaches land.

In Bangladesh, the country's disaster management minister and media outlets have reported that they expect to evacuate about 2 million people from regions sitting in the cyclone's path. The low-lying coast of Bangladesh, home to 30 million people, is regularly battered by cyclones that have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades. The Bangladeshi government has predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll.

The storm has also caused floods in Sri Lanka, adding to the country's woes as it struggles to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

The timing of the cyclone could not be worse, as India is the global epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, with over 28 million cases and over 330,000 deaths. The country's healthcare system is already stretched to its limits, and the cyclone has only added to the challenges.

The cyclone has also caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India, which was already reeling from the effects of Cyclone Tauktae, which hit the coast just 10 days ago and killed more than 150 people.

The Indian government has said that it is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of people in the affected areas. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army have been deployed to carry out rescue and relief operations.

The cyclone has also highlighted the need for better disaster management and preparedness in the region. With climate change leading to more frequent and intense natural disasters, it is crucial that countries in South Asia invest in early warning systems, evacuation plans, and infrastructure to mitigate the impact of such disasters.

In conclusion, Cyclone Amphan has hit India and Bangladesh at a time when the two countries are already grappling with the effects of a global pandemic. The storm has caused widespread destruction and loss of life, adding to the challenges faced by the two countries. The disaster has highlighted the need for better disaster management and preparedness in the region, as well as the importance of addressing the impacts of climate change.
Title: Cyclone Amphan: A Double Disaster for India and Bangladesh Amidst a Raging Pandemic

Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, is currently churning over the Bay of Bengal and threatening the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India, just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India's west coast and claimed over 150 lives. The cyclone is set to make landfall in West Bengal, which was also the epicenter of last year's Cyclone Amphan, the most powerful storm in over a decade to hit eastern India, killing nearly 100 people.

The region is already grappling with the effects of a devastating coronavirus surge, with Bangladesh reporting over 10 million cases and India reporting over 28 million cases, making it the global epicenter of the pandemic. The cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, further complicating the country's efforts to deal with these crises.

Bangladesh, with its low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, is also at risk of incurring a US$1.5 billion damage toll due to the cyclone. Last year, Cyclone Amphan caused an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage in Bangladesh. This year, the Bangladeshi government expects to evacuate about 2 million people from regions sitting in the cyclone's path.

The storm has already caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India, with hundreds of thousands of people evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha as the cyclone approaches land. The cyclone's heavy rainfall has also led to the flooding of streets and damage to buildings in coastal areas, affecting thousands of people.

The cyclone's timing couldn't be worse for India, which has reported the highest number of daily COVID-19 cases in the world for several weeks. The healthcare system is already stretched thin, and the cyclone's aftermath is expected to further strain resources, with displaced people needing shelter, food, and medical care.

The disaster management minister of Bangladesh, Enamur Rahman, has said that they will maintain social distancing in the shelters by increasing the number of cyclone centers from around 5,000 to over 12,000. However, implementing social distancing measures in crowded shelters will be a significant challenge.

The international community must rally to support South Asia in this time of crisis. Donations of medical supplies, food, and other essential items are urgently needed to help those affected by the cyclone and the pandemic.

In conclusion, Cyclone Amphan is a disaster bigger than Covid-19, as stated by Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of West Bengal. The cyclone's aftermath will further strain the region's healthcare system, and international support is urgently needed to help those affected by the disaster. The storm's impact highlights the urgent need for climate change mitigation efforts, as the region's low-lying coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events.
Title: Cyclone Amphan Hits India and Bangladesh Amidst Coronavirus Surge: A Double Disaster

Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has hit the coastal regions of India and Bangladesh, causing floods in Sri Lanka. The cyclone has caused widespread destruction and damage, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the two countries grappling with the effects of a global pandemic.

Cyclone Amphan, which comes amid a devastating coronavirus surge, has complicated India's efforts to deal with these crises. Just 10 days ago, Cyclone Tauktae hit India's west coast, killing more than 150 people. The cyclone has caused large scale and extensive damage across multiple districts in West Bengal, India. In Bangladesh, the country's disaster management minister and media outlets have predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll.

Bangladesh's low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, and India's east are regularly battered by cyclones that have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades. In Bangladesh, approximately 2 million people were evacuated from regions sitting in the cyclone's path.

The government of India has said that the cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal. Last May, nearly 100 people died in Cyclone Amphan, the most powerful storm in more than 10 years to hit eastern India, including West Bengal.

The disaster management minister of Bangladesh, Enamur Rahman, said that Bangladesh is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of its citizens. "Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centres and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters," he said.

The cyclone has caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India. By some estimates, more than 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, as Cyclone Amphan approaches land.

The Covid-19 pandemic has added an additional layer of complexity to the disaster response efforts. The need for social distancing, personal protective equipment, and quarantine facilities have put added pressure on disaster management agencies.

The storm has led to the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations, and possibly deaths. It’s the first named tropical cyclone of the year in the region, and a natural disaster like this couldn’t have come at a worse time as India is the global epicenter of the pandemic.

In conclusion, Cyclone Amphan has added to the already challenging situation in South Asia, where India and Bangladesh are struggling to cope with the effects of the global pandemic. The cyclone has caused widespread damage and destruction, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the two countries. Despite these challenges, disaster management agencies are working round the clock to ensure the safety of citizens, and it is hoped that the region will soon recover from this double disaster.
Title: "Cyclone Amphan: A Double Disaster for India and Bangladesh Amidst the Covidd-19 Pandemic"

South Asia is currently grappling with two major crises - a global pandemic and a severe cyclonic storm. Cyclone Amphan, described as a disaster bigger than Covid-19 by Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, has hit the coast of India and Bangladesh, causing extensive damage and complicating the region's efforts to deal with the ongoing health crisis.

Cyclone Amphan made landfall on May 20, 2020, affecting over 148,000 people in the eastern Indian state of Odisha and causing widespread destruction in West Bengal. The storm brought heavy rain and high-speed winds, resulting in the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations, and possible fatalities. The storm caused an estimated damage toll of US$1.5 billion in Bangladesh and US$130 million in India, affecting over a million people.

The cyclone hit just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India's west coast and killed more than 150 people. The Indian government has warned that Cyclone Amphan's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, where nearly 100 people died in the storm last year.

Bangladesh, with its low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, is no stranger to cyclones. The country's disaster management minister and media outlets have predicted that about 2 million people will be evacuated from regions in the cyclone's path. Last year, nearly 100 people died in Cyclone Amphan, the most powerful storm in more than 10 years to hit eastern India, including West Bengal.

The coronavirus pandemic has added an extra layer of complexity to the disaster response. With over 12,000 cyclone centres, the Bangladeshi government has taken measures to maintain social distancing in the shelters. However, the risk of infection remains high, and the region's healthcare systems are already stretched thin.

The timing of the disaster could not have been worse. India is currently experiencing a devastating coronavirus surge, and the cyclone has caused further disruptions to the country's healthcare system. The storm has also caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India, adding to the country's woes.

The cyclone is a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to natural disasters. With the climate crisis likely to exacerbate these challenges, there is an urgent need for greater investment in disaster preparedness and response measures. As the region struggles to recover from the impact of the cyclone, the focus must also be on building back better, with a greater emphasis on resilience and sustainability.

In conclusion, Cyclone Amphan has caused significant damage to India's and Bangladesh's coasts, affecting over a million people and causing extensive damage. The disaster has complicated efforts to deal with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, further straining the region's healthcare systems. With the risk of natural disasters likely to increase due to the climate crisis, there is a need for greater investment in disaster preparedness and response measures, with a focus on resilience and sustainability.
Cyclone Amphan Batters India and Bangladesh Amid Coronavirus Crisis

As India and Bangladesh grapple with surging coronavirus infections, Cyclone Amphan made landfall on Wednesday, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal surges to coastal regions. The powerful storm has also caused flooding in neighboring Sri Lanka, compounding the challenges faced by South Asian nations already struggling with the pandemic.

Cyclone Amphan, described as one of the most powerful storms to hit the region in over a decade, struck India's eastern coast with wind speeds up to 115 mph. West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called the cyclone "a disaster bigger than Covid-19," highlighting the severity of the situation.

The Indian government warned of "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal. Authorities have evacuated over 148,000 people in the eastern state of Odisha as a precautionary measure. In Bangladesh, officials planned to evacuate approximately 2 million people from the cyclone's path.

The storm's impact is particularly concerning given the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. With over 106,000 confirmed cases in India and nearly 26,000 in Bangladesh, authorities face the daunting task of maintaining social distancing in evacuation shelters. Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister, Enamur Rahman, stated that the number of cyclone centers has been increased from 5,000 to over 12,000 to facilitate social distancing.

Pradeep Jena, special relief commissioner for Odisha state, emphasized that the cyclone's path over the next six to eight hours would be crucial in determining its ultimate impact. The US Pacific Disaster Center estimates that nearly 39 million people in India and Bangladesh are at risk of exposure to the storm's winds.

This natural disaster comes at a particularly challenging time for India, which is currently the global epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic. The combination of the cyclone and the virus outbreak is stretching emergency resources thin and complicating relief efforts.

Cyclone Amphan follows closely on the heels of Cyclone Tauktae, which hit India's west coast just 10 days ago, killing more than 150 people. The rapid succession of these powerful storms highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in the region, likely exacerbated by climate change.

As the cyclone continues to move inland, authorities are bracing for widespread flooding, infrastructure damage, and potential loss of life. The coming days will be critical as rescue and relief operations begin, all while maintaining vigilance against the spread of COVID-19.

The international community watches closely as India and Bangladesh face this dual crisis, with hopes that the region can weather both the storm and the pandemic with minimal loss of life and swift recovery.
Cyclone Amphan Batters India and Bangladesh Amid Coronavirus Crisis

As India and Bangladesh struggle to contain the spread of coronavirus, a new disaster has struck the region in the form of Cyclone Amphan. The powerful storm made landfall on Wednesday, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges to coastal areas.

Cyclone Amphan, one of the strongest storms recorded in the Bay of Bengal in decades, has forced the evacuation of millions of people in both countries. The cyclone's arrival comes at a particularly challenging time, as the region grapples with rising COVID-19 infections and the economic fallout from lockdown measures.

In India, the eastern states of West Bengal and Odisha are bearing the brunt of the cyclone's impact. West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee described the situation as "a disaster bigger than Covid-19," highlighting the severity of the storm. The Indian government has warned of "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal.

Bangladesh, with its low-lying coastal areas home to 30 million people, is also facing significant threats from the cyclone. The country's disaster management minister reported plans to evacuate approximately 2 million people from the storm's path. Bangladesh has increased its cyclone shelter capacity from 5,000 to over 12,000 to accommodate evacuees while maintaining social distancing protocols.

The combination of the cyclone and the ongoing pandemic presents unique challenges for both countries. Evacuation efforts are complicated by the need to prevent the spread of coronavirus in shelters. Additionally, the destruction caused by Cyclone Amphan may hamper efforts to contain the virus and treat patients in affected areas.

Cyclone Amphan has already caused widespread damage, including flooding in Sri Lanka. The storm's impact is expected to be felt across a wide area, with the US Pacific Disaster Center estimating that nearly 39 million people in India and Bangladesh could be exposed to the cyclone's effects.

As the region braces for the full impact of Cyclone Amphan, authorities are working to minimize loss of life and property damage while also managing the ongoing health crisis. The coming days will be crucial in determining the full extent of the cyclone's impact and the ability of India and Bangladesh to respond effectively to this dual threat.
Cyclone Amphan Batters India and Bangladesh Amid Coronavirus Crisis

As India and Bangladesh struggle to contain the coronavirus pandemic, Cyclone Amphan has made landfall along the countries' coastal regions, bringing with it destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surges. The powerful cyclone, described as one of the strongest storms to hit the region in decades, has forced the evacuation of millions and threatens to cause widespread damage across multiple districts.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared the cyclone "a disaster bigger than Covid-19," highlighting the compounded challenges facing the region. The Indian government has warned of "large scale and extensive damage" across affected areas, with concerns about the cyclone's impact on critical infrastructure, agriculture, and vulnerable coastal communities.

In Bangladesh, authorities expect to evacuate approximately 2 million people from the cyclone's path. The country's disaster management minister, Enamur Rahman, stated that the number of cyclone shelters has been increased from 5,000 to over 12,000 to accommodate social distancing requirements amidst the ongoing pandemic.

The US Pacific Disaster Center estimates that nearly 39 million people in India and Bangladesh are at risk of exposure to the cyclone's winds. Experts warn that the combination of high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges could lead to catastrophic flooding and widespread destruction.

Odisha state in eastern India has already evacuated more than 148,000 people, with numbers expected to rise as the cyclone progresses. The storm has already caused flooding in Sri Lanka and is expected to affect millions more as it moves inland.

This natural disaster comes at a particularly challenging time for India, which is currently grappling with a severe coronavirus outbreak. The need for mass evacuations and the potential destruction of medical facilities could further complicate efforts to contain the virus.

As Cyclone Amphan continues to batter the region, authorities are working to minimize loss of life and damage to property. However, the combination of the cyclone and the ongoing pandemic presents an unprecedented challenge for disaster response efforts in South Asia.
Cyclone Amphan Batters India and Bangladesh Amid Coronavirus Crisis

As India and Bangladesh grapple with surging coronavirus infections, Cyclone Amphan has made landfall along the countries' coastal regions, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal surges. The powerful storm, described as a "disaster bigger than Covid-19" by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has forced the evacuation of millions and is expected to cause widespread damage across multiple districts.

Cyclone Amphan, the first named tropical cyclone of the year in the region, comes at a particularly challenging time as India battles the world's worst coronavirus outbreak. The storm's arrival compounds the difficulties faced by authorities in managing both the pandemic and the natural disaster simultaneously.

In Bangladesh, an estimated 10 million people have been affected by the cyclone, with at least 25 fatalities reported. The country's disaster management minister stated that approximately 2 million people were expected to be evacuated from regions in the storm's path. Bangladesh's low-lying coastal areas, home to 30 million people, are particularly vulnerable to cyclones and have historically suffered significant losses.

India's eastern coast, especially the state of West Bengal, is bearing the brunt of Cyclone Amphan's impact. The Indian government has warned of "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts due to strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves. In Odisha state, over 148,000 people have already been evacuated.

The storm has caused widespread destruction of buildings and trees, flooding streets, and damaging infrastructure in coastal areas. Agricultural damage is also expected to be significant. The full extent of the cyclone's impact is still being assessed, but early reports indicate substantial devastation.

Authorities in both countries face the daunting task of maintaining social distancing in evacuation shelters while protecting vulnerable populations from the dual threats of the cyclone and the coronavirus. Bangladesh has increased its number of cyclone centers from 5,000 to over 12,000 to facilitate social distancing.

As Cyclone Amphan continues to move inland, millions of people across South Asia remain at risk. The storm's effects are also being felt in Sri Lanka, where flooding has been reported. With the region already strained by the pandemic, the aftermath of this powerful cyclone poses significant challenges for recovery and reconstruction efforts in the affected areas.
Cyclone Amphan Batters India and Bangladesh Amid Coronavirus Crisis

As India and Bangladesh struggle to contain the spread of coronavirus, Cyclone Amphan has made landfall along the countries' coastal regions, bringing with it destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surges. The powerful cyclone, described as one of the strongest storms to hit the region in over a decade, has forced the evacuation of millions and is expected to cause widespread damage across multiple districts.

Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of the Indian state of West Bengal, declared the cyclone "a disaster bigger than Covid-19." The Indian government has warned of "large scale and extensive damage" in West Bengal, where the cyclone's impact is expected to be most severe. Last year, Cyclone Amphan claimed nearly 100 lives in the state.

In Bangladesh, authorities estimate that 10 million people have been affected by the cyclone, with at least 25 fatalities reported so far. The country's disaster management minister stated that approximately 2 million people were expected to be evacuated from regions in the storm's path. Initial estimates suggest that damages in Bangladesh could reach up to US$1.5 billion.

The cyclone presents a unique challenge for both countries as they attempt to maintain social distancing measures during mass evacuations. Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister, explained that the number of cyclone shelters has been increased from 5,000 to over 12,000 to allow for proper social distancing.

In the Indian state of Odisha, more than 148,000 people have already been evacuated. The US Pacific Disaster Center has estimated that nearly 39 million people in India and Bangladesh are at risk of exposure to the cyclone's winds.

The timing of Cyclone Amphan could not be worse for India, which is currently grappling with a devastating surge in coronavirus cases. The country is now the global epicenter of the pandemic, and the cyclone threatens to further strain healthcare resources and complicate relief efforts.

In addition to the immediate dangers posed by high winds and flooding, the cyclone is expected to cause significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture in affected areas. Widespread power outages, destroyed buildings, and uprooted trees have already been reported in coastal regions.

As the cyclone continues to move inland, authorities in both India and Bangladesh are working to provide emergency assistance and assess the full extent of the damage. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with concerns about the potential for a humanitarian crisis in a region already reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
## Cyclone Amphan Devastates India and Bangladesh Amidst COVID-19 Crisis

**Kolkata, India/Dhaka, Bangladesh** - As the world grapples with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, South Asia is facing another devastating blow: Cyclone Amphan, a storm of unprecedented scale, has slammed into the coasts of India and Bangladesh, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. 

The cyclone, packing winds of up to 155 mph, made landfall in West Bengal, India, on Wednesday, bringing with it torrential rainfall, storm surges, and widespread flooding.  The storm surge inundated coastal areas, destroying homes, businesses, and vital infrastructure.  

"This is a disaster bigger than COVID-19," declared Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal, as she surveyed the devastation. 

The Indian government has warned of "large-scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, with reports of widespread power outages and communication disruptions.  Over 148,000 people have been evacuated from the eastern state of Odisha, bracing for the storm's impact.

Bangladesh, too, has been severely affected.  The cyclone, which made landfall earlier in the day, has claimed at least 25 lives and displaced over a million people across nine districts.  The Bangladeshi government estimates the damage to be around US$1.5 billion, with widespread flooding and damage to crops and infrastructure.

The storm's impact comes at a particularly challenging time for both countries, which are already struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19.  The cyclone has complicated relief efforts, forcing authorities to balance the need for social distancing with the urgent need to provide shelter and aid to those affected.

"Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centres and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters," said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister.

The international community has pledged support to both countries, with aid agencies mobilizing resources to provide emergency assistance.  The United Nations has warned that the cyclone could have a devastating impact on the region's already fragile economies and exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.


The full extent of the damage caused by Cyclone Amphan is still being assessed, but it is clear that the storm will have a long-lasting impact on the lives of millions of people in India and Bangladesh.  The world watches with concern as these nations face this double blow of natural disaster and pandemic. 
<end_of_turn>
##  Cyclone Amphan Devastates India and Bangladesh Amidst COVID-19 Crisis

**Kolkata, India** - As India and Bangladesh grapple with the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new crisis has struck the region: Cyclone Amphan, one of the most powerful storms in recent decades, has made landfall, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. 

The cyclone, packing winds of up to 155 miles per hour, slammed into the coast of West Bengal, India, and Bangladesh on Wednesday, bringing with it torrential rains, storm surges, and widespread flooding.  

"This storm is bigger than COVID-19," declared Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal, as she surveyed the damage. The Indian government has warned of "large-scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, with reports of collapsed buildings, uprooted trees, and widespread power outages.

In Bangladesh, the cyclone's impact has been equally devastating. Over 1 million people have been affected across nine districts, with at least 25 reported deaths. The Bangladeshi government estimates the damage to be around US$1.5 billion, a significant blow to a country already struggling with the economic fallout of the pandemic.

The cyclone's arrival comes just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae ravaged India's western coast, killing over 150 people. This double blow has compounded the challenges faced by both countries, already stretched thin by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

Adding to the complexity, authorities are facing the daunting task of evacuating and providing aid to millions of people while adhering to social distancing guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus. 

"Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centres, and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters," said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister.

The international community has pledged support to both India and Bangladesh in their recovery efforts. The United Nations and other aid organizations are working to provide emergency relief supplies and assistance to those affected by the cyclone.


The full extent of the damage caused by Cyclone Amphan is still being assessed, but it is clear that the storm has left a devastating mark on the region. As the world watches, the people of India and Bangladesh face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and communities in the face of this double crisis. 
<end_of_turn>
##  Cyclone Amphan Devastates India and Bangladesh Amidst COVID-19 Crisis

**Kolkata, India** -  As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, South Asia is facing another devastating blow: Cyclone Amphan, one of the strongest storms in recent decades, has slammed into the coasts of India and Bangladesh, leaving a trail of destruction and compounding the region's already dire situation. 

The storm, packing winds of up to 155 mph, made landfall in West Bengal, India, and Bangladesh on Wednesday, unleashing torrential rains, storm surges, and widespread flooding.  Millions have been left displaced, with entire villages submerged under water.  

"This is a disaster bigger than COVID-19," declared Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal, as she surveyed the devastation.  

The cyclone's impact is particularly devastating given the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.  India is currently battling a surge in infections, and the storm has overwhelmed already strained healthcare systems and relief efforts.  

"Evacuating people during a pandemic is a huge challenge," said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister. "We are trying to maintain social distancing in shelters, but it's difficult."

Bangladesh, home to 30 million people living in low-lying coastal areas, has been particularly hard hit.  At least 25 people have been confirmed dead, and over a million people have been displaced.  The Bangladeshi government estimates the damage to be around US$1.5 billion.

In India, the storm has caused widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and crops.  Over 148,000 people have been evacuated from the eastern state of Odisha, and authorities are bracing for further casualties as rescue efforts continue.

The cyclone comes just ten days after Cyclone Tauktae ripped through India's west coast, killing over 150 people.  This double blow highlights the increasing vulnerability of South Asia to extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change.

The international community has pledged support to the affected countries, but the scale of the devastation is immense.  The road to recovery will be long and arduous, particularly as the region continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.


<end_of_turn>
## Cyclone Amphan Devastates India and Bangladesh Amidst COVID-19 Crisis

**Kolkata, India** -  Just as India and Bangladesh were battling a devastating surge in COVID-19 infections, a powerful cyclone, Amphan, slammed into the coast, compounding the already dire situation. The storm, one of the strongest to hit the region in decades, wreaked havoc in both countries, causing widespread damage, flooding, and tragically, loss of life.

Cyclone Amphan, packing winds of over 150 mph, made landfall in West Bengal, India, on Wednesday, May 20th, unleashing torrential rainfall and a catastrophic storm surge. Millions were left without power, homes were reduced to rubble, and vital infrastructure was crippled. 

"This storm is bigger than Covid-19," declared Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, highlighting the scale of the devastation.  

The storm surge inundated coastal areas, leaving entire villages submerged. The Indian government has estimated "large-scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, with early reports indicating significant loss of life.

Bangladesh, too, bore the brunt of Amphan's fury. Over 10 million people were affected, with at least 25 reported deaths. The cyclone caused an estimated $130 million in damage, with the Bangladeshi government predicting a potential $1.5 billion toll. 

Adding to the complexity of the situation, both countries are grappling with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The cyclone's aftermath has created a humanitarian crisis, with thousands displaced and in desperate need of shelter, food, and medical assistance. 

Evacuations were hampered by the pandemic, with social distancing measures complicating relief efforts.  “Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centres and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters,” said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh’s junior disaster management minister.

The cyclone's impact comes just weeks after Cyclone Tauktae devastated India's western coast, killing over 150 people. This double blow highlights the vulnerability of South Asia to the combined threats of climate change and pandemics.


The international community has pledged support for the affected regions, but the road to recovery will be long and arduous. The people of India and Bangladesh face a daunting challenge, rebuilding their lives and livelihoods in the wake of this devastating double blow. 
<end_of_turn>
##  Cyclone Amphan Devastates India and Bangladesh Amidst Coronavirus Crisis

**Kolkata, India** -  As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, South Asia faces another devastating blow: Cyclone Amphan, one of the most powerful storms in recent decades, has ripped through India and Bangladesh, leaving a trail of destruction and compounding the existing crisis.

The storm, packing winds exceeding 155 mph, made landfall on Wednesday near the Sundarbans, a densely populated mangrove forest shared by India and Bangladesh.  While the storm's intensity has weakened, the damage is immense.

In India, West Bengal, the epicenter of the cyclone's landfall, has been particularly hard hit.  Millions have been displaced, homes and infrastructure have been decimated, and widespread flooding is causing further chaos.  The state’s Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, has described Amphan as “a disaster bigger than COVID-19.”

Bangladesh, already vulnerable to cyclones, has also suffered significant damage.  Over a million people have been affected across nine districts, with at least 25 lives lost.  The Bangladeshi government estimates a staggering US$1.5 billion in damage, a blow to a nation still recovering from the economic fallout of the pandemic.

Adding to the complexity of the crisis, both countries are battling a surge in coronavirus infections.  Evacuation efforts have been complicated by the need to maintain social distancing protocols, highlighting the difficult choices facing authorities.

“Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centers, and this time we will have more than 12,000 – this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters,” said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh’s junior disaster management minister. 

The international community is responding to the crisis, with aid agencies rushing to provide emergency assistance.  However, the scale of the destruction and the dual threat of the pandemic underscore the urgent need for long-term solutions to build resilience against natural disasters in vulnerable regions. 


<end_of_turn>
**Cyclone Amphan Brings Devastation to South Asia**

The Bay of Bengal is abuzz with the fury of Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic proportions that is set to wreak havoc on the coastal regions of Bangladesh and India. The cyclone, which has already affected 10 million people in Bangladesh and killed at least 25, is expected to make landfall in the coming hours, bringing with it strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves that could cause catastrophic damage across multiple districts.

The Indian government has warned of "large-scale and extensive damage" across West Bengal, with nearly 100 people dying in Cyclone Amphan last May, the most powerful storm in over a decade to hit eastern India. The state's special relief commissioner, Pradeep Jena, has emphasized the importance of the next six to eight hours in determining the storm's trajectory and impact.

Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi government has predicted a damage toll of $1.5 billion, with the country's low-lying coast home to 30 million people bearing the brunt of the storm. The government has ordered the evacuation of 2 million people from regions in the cyclone's path, a move that is expected to be a massive undertaking given the scale of the disaster.

The cyclone has already caused widespread destruction in West Bengal, with buildings and trees destroyed, mass evacuations underway, and possibly even deaths. The storm has also led to the destruction of infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India.

The timing of the cyclone's arrival could not be worse, coming just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India's west coast and killed over 150 people. The region is no stranger to cyclones, with hundreds of thousands of people having been evacuated in recent years.

As the storm makes landfall, residents are bracing themselves for the worst, with many taking to social media to express their concerns and offer support. The Indian government has mobilized its disaster management teams to respond to the crisis, with over 148,000 people evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha.

The cyclone has also brought attention to the region's vulnerability to natural disasters, with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warning of "catastrophic flooding," landslides, and widespread loss of power throughout the islands.

As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Cyclone Amphan is a disaster of historic proportions that will have far-reaching consequences for the people of South Asia.

**Related Coverage:**

* Cyclone Tauktae: The Devastating Storm that Hit India's West Coast
* The Impact of Climate Change on South Asia's Coastal Regions
* India's Disaster Management Efforts: A Look at the Country's Response to Natural Disasters
## Double Trouble: Cyclone Amphan Strikes South Asia Amidst COVID-19 Crisis

South Asia, already grappling with the devastating effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic, is now facing another major crisis: Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has slammed into the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India. The cyclone, which comes just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae ravaged India's west coast, has further complicated the region's efforts to combat the pandemic.

Amphan, described as the most powerful storm to hit eastern India in over a decade, has brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves, causing widespread damage and destruction. The Indian government has warned of "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, the epicenter of the cyclone's landfall. 

In Bangladesh, the storm has affected over a million people across nine districts, causing an estimated $130 million in damage. The government has predicted a total damage toll of $1.5 billion.  The low-lying coast of Bangladesh, home to 30 million people, is particularly vulnerable to cyclones, and the government has evacuated over 2 million people from the storm's path.

The storm's impact has been exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.  The cyclone has disrupted relief efforts and strained already overwhelmed healthcare systems.  The Indian state of West Bengal, which has been hit hardest by the cyclone, is also one of the worst-affected states by the pandemic. 

"A storm of this magnitude with the amount of rainfall and the storm surge on the coast could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh," said a US meteorologist.

The cyclone has also caused widespread damage in Sri Lanka, flooding streets and damaging buildings in coastal areas. The storm's heavy rainfall has also affected the southern portions of the country.

The arrival of Cyclone Amphan highlights the growing threat of natural disasters in a region already facing multiple challenges.  As climate change intensifies, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are expected to increase, posing a significant threat to South Asia's fragile ecosystems and vulnerable populations. 

The region's leaders are facing a daunting task in managing the aftermath of Cyclone Amphan while continuing to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.  The storm serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of global challenges and the need for coordinated efforts to address them. 

## Double Trouble: Cyclone Amphan Strikes as India and Bangladesh Battle Coronavirus

**Kolkata, India/Dhaka, Bangladesh** - South Asia, already grappling with the devastating effects of the global pandemic, is now facing another major crisis: Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has slammed into the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India. The cyclone, which comes amid a surge in coronavirus infections, has complicated India's efforts to manage the dual crises, just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit the country's west coast, killing over 150 people.

Amphan, described as the most powerful storm to hit eastern India in over a decade, has brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves, causing "large-scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, India. The storm has also led to the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations, and potentially, deaths.

In Bangladesh, the cyclone has affected over a million people across nine districts, causing an estimated $130 million in damage. The government has predicted a total damage toll of $1.5 billion. The low-lying coast of Bangladesh, home to 30 million people, is regularly battered by cyclones, which have claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in recent decades.

The cyclone's impact on both countries is further exacerbated by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. India, the global epicenter of the pandemic, is battling a devastating second wave, with hospitals overwhelmed and oxygen supplies running low. Bangladesh is also experiencing a surge in cases.

"A storm of this magnitude with the amount of rainfall and the storm surge on the coast could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh," said a US meteorologist.

Authorities in both countries have been working tirelessly to prepare for the cyclone's arrival. In India, over 148,000 people have been evacuated from the eastern state of Odisha. In Bangladesh, the government has announced plans to evacuate around 2 million people from areas in the cyclone's path.

"Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centers and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters," said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister.

The cyclone's arrival has raised concerns about the potential for further strain on already stretched resources and infrastructure. The storm's impact on the region's economy, particularly its agricultural sector, is also expected to be significant.

As the storm continues to batter the region, authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide relief to those affected. The double blow of the cyclone and the pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of South Asia to natural disasters and the need for robust disaster preparedness and response mechanisms. 

## Double Trouble: Cyclone Amphan Slams into South Asia Amidst COVID-19 Crisis

**Kolkata, India/Dhaka, Bangladesh -**  As South Asia grapples with the devastating effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a new crisis has emerged: Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has battered the coastal regions of Bangladesh and India. The storm, which made landfall on Wednesday, has already caused widespread devastation, compounding the challenges posed by the virus.

The cyclone, described by officials as the strongest to hit the region in over a decade, brought with it torrential rains, strong winds, and tidal waves, causing significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture. In India, the state of West Bengal bore the brunt of the storm, with reports of widespread flooding, downed trees, and damaged buildings. 

“This is a disaster bigger than COVID-19,” declared Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal. The Indian government has warned of “large-scale and extensive damage” across multiple districts in the state.

Bangladesh, already reeling from the pandemic, also faced significant devastation. The government estimates that over a million people were affected across nine districts, with the cyclone causing an estimated $130 million in damage. The low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, is particularly vulnerable to cyclones, and the government has predicted a potential damage toll of $1.5 billion.

The storm’s arrival comes just ten days after Cyclone Tauktae struck India’s west coast, killing over 150 people. The back-to-back cyclones have put immense pressure on disaster response systems, already stretched thin by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“A storm of this magnitude with the amount of rainfall and the storm surge on the coast could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh,” said a spokesperson for the US National Hurricane Center.

The storm’s impact on the region’s already strained healthcare infrastructure is a major concern.  With hospitals already overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients, the cyclone’s devastation has further complicated the situation. 

“Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centers and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters,” said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh’s junior disaster management minister, highlighting the challenge of managing both disasters simultaneously.

As the storm subsides, the region faces a monumental task of rebuilding and recovery. The combined forces of the pandemic and the cyclone have left millions vulnerable and exposed, demanding a coordinated and swift response to address the immediate needs and long-term challenges. 

## Double Disaster: Cyclone Amphan Pummels South Asia Amidst COVID-19 Crisis

**Kolkata, India/ Dhaka, Bangladesh** –  South Asia, already grappling with the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, is now facing another major crisis: Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has slammed into the coastal regions of Bangladesh and India. The storm, which made landfall on Wednesday,  has brought heavy winds, torrential rainfall, and dangerous tidal waves, causing widespread damage and leaving a trail of devastation across the region.

The cyclone comes just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae ravaged India's west coast, claiming over 150 lives. The back-to-back cyclones have put immense pressure on disaster management agencies, healthcare systems, and local communities already struggling with the pandemic.

"A storm of this magnitude with the amount of rainfall and the storm surge on the coast could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh," said Jeffrey Masters, a meteorologist at the Weather Underground.

In India, the eastern state of West Bengal bore the brunt of the storm's fury. The Indian government has warned of "large-scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts, with reports of buildings destroyed, trees uprooted, and power outages. More than 148,000 people were evacuated in the state of Odisha as the cyclone approached.

"This is a disaster bigger than COVID-19," said Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of West Bengal, highlighting the enormity of the challenge.

Bangladesh, with its low-lying coast home to 30 million people, also faced significant damage. The government has estimated a damage toll of US$1.5 billion, with over a million people affected across nine districts. Evacuation efforts were underway, with authorities aiming to move over 2 million people from vulnerable areas.

The cyclone's impact extends beyond the immediate coastal regions. Heavy rainfall caused by the storm has led to floods in Sri Lanka, further adding to the region's woes.

The timing of Cyclone Amphan couldn't have been worse, as India is currently facing a devastating surge in COVID-19 cases, putting immense strain on its healthcare system. The cyclone's aftermath will likely complicate India's efforts to contain the virus, with potential disruptions to infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and supply chains.

The storm has also highlighted the vulnerability of South Asian countries to climate change and the need for robust disaster preparedness measures. 

"This is a wake-up call for the region," said an official from the Bangladesh Disaster Management Ministry. "We need to invest in better infrastructure, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness programs to mitigate the impact of future cyclones."

As the storm subsides, the region faces the daunting task of rebuilding, recovering, and providing relief to the millions affected by Cyclone Amphan. The double whammy of COVID-19 and a powerful cyclone has brought South Asia to its knees, emphasizing the need for greater global cooperation and support in addressing both climate change and pandemic threats. 

##  Double Whammy: Cyclone Amphan Pummels India and Bangladesh Amidst COVID-19 Crisis 

**Kolkata, India** -  South Asia, already reeling under the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, is now facing a new wave of disaster with the arrival of Cyclone Amphan.  This powerful storm, described as one of the most severe in decades, has made landfall in the Bay of Bengal, bringing with it heavy rains, strong winds, and storm surges.  

The cyclone's impact has been felt most acutely in India's east coast and Bangladesh, where millions of people are already struggling with the COVID-19 pandemic. In India, the cyclone has caused extensive damage across multiple districts in West Bengal, the epicenter of the storm's landfall.  The storm has destroyed buildings and trees, forcing mass evacuations and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. 

The timing of Cyclone Amphan couldn’t have been worse for India, which is battling a record surge in COVID-19 cases. The storm adds another layer of complexity to the country's already strained healthcare system, with rescue and relief efforts further hampered by the pandemic's restrictions.  

In Bangladesh, authorities have been forced to evacuate an estimated 2 million people from low-lying coastal areas in the cyclone's path.  The storm has also caused significant damage in Sri Lanka, where flooding has been reported. 

“A storm of this magnitude with the amount of rainfall and the storm surge on the coast could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh,” stated a spokesperson from the US National Hurricane Center. 

The cyclone has also raised concerns about the potential for widespread power outages and landslides in the affected regions.  This could further complicate efforts to provide aid and support to those impacted by the storm. 

As the storm continues to move inland, authorities in India and Bangladesh are working tirelessly to assess the damage and provide relief to those affected.  However, the immediate future remains uncertain, and the full extent of the damage from Cyclone Amphan is still being determined. 

Title: Cyclone Amphan Wreaks Havoc on South Asia Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

South Asia is currently facing a double whammy as Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has hit the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India, while the region is already grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The cyclone, which comes just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India's west coast and killed over 150 people, has complicated India's efforts to deal with these crises.

In Bangladesh, Cyclone Amphan affected 10 million people and caused at least 25 deaths. Over a million people were affected by Amphan across nine districts in the divisions of Khulna and Barisal, with the cyclone causing an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage. The Bangladeshi government predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll. Bangladesh's low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, and India's east are regularly battered by cyclones that have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades.

In India, Cyclone Amphan's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal, according to the Indian government. The Indian government has said that the cyclone's impact could be catastrophic across this region of India and Bangladesh. More than 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha as Cyclone Amphan approaches land. West Bengal, the epicenter of the cyclone's landfall, saw the most widespread damage from Amphan.

The storm has led to the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations, and possibly deaths. It's the first named tropical cyclone of the year in the region, and a natural disaster like this couldn't have come at a worse time as India is the global epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. The cyclone also caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India.

The storm flooded streets and damaged buildings in coastal areas. Due to the very large area of heavy rainfall over the cyclone, it dumped heavy rainfall over the southern portions of the country. Hundreds of thousands have been evacuated as Cyclone Amphan approaches, one of the region's most powerful storms in decades.

Natural disasters during the month of May have been particularly devastating in South Asia, with 328 either dead or missing. People braved high winds and heavy rain to clear debris as the storm tore through the region. An unusually strong storm could potentially cause "catastrophic flooding," landslides, and widespread loss of power throughout the islands, the National Weather Service warned.

Cyclone Amphan LIVE: As per IMD Chennai, heavy rain is likely to occur at one or two places over Nilgiris and Ghat areas of Coimbatore districts. The cyclone brought heavy to very heavy rains over north coastal Tamil Nadu starting 23 November 2020. The city has been witnessing "major flood" situations, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said.

In our Get Real India, watch this ground report from Chennai, where the IMD issued cyclone warnings off the coast of Tamil Nadu, and where Indian spinning ace Ravichandran Ashwin waded into the ongoing flood situation in his native Chennai and also shared a video clip carrying a message on climate change on his social media handle.

The impact of Cyclone Amphan on South Asia is a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to natural disasters and the need for better preparedness and response mechanisms. The COVID-19 pandemic has only added to the complexity of the situation, making it even more critical for governments and aid organizations to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected populations.
Cyclone Amphan, a historic storm of catastrophic proportions, has hit the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India, causing widespread destruction and adding to the already dire situation caused by the global pandemic. The storm, which is the first named tropical cyclone of the year in the region, has affected over 10 million people in Bangladesh, causing an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage, with the Bangladeshi government predicting a US$1.5 billion damage toll. In India, Cyclone Amphan has caused "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in the east Indian state of West Bengal, with the Indian government warning of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves. The Indian state of Odisha has already evacuated over 148,000 people in anticipation of the storm's landfall.
The cyclone has also caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India, with buildings and trees destroyed and mass evacuations taking place. The storm has flooded streets and damaged buildings in coastal areas, with the Indian government warning of catastrophic flooding, landslides, and widespread loss of power throughout the region. The Indian government has said that the cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal.
The disaster management minister of Bangladesh, Enamur Rahman, has said that the country expects to evacuate about 2 million people from regions sitting in the cyclone's path. In India, the chief minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, has described the cyclone as a disaster bigger than Covid-19. The Indian government has said that the cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal.
The storm has also caused widespread flooding in Sri Lanka, with torrential rain and the aftermath of Cyclone Remal leading to widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption of infrastructure in Assam and Manipur, affecting thousands of people. The IMD has issued cyclone warnings off the coast of Tamil Nadu, with heavy to very heavy rains expected over north coastal Tamil Nadu starting 23 November 2020.
The impact of Cyclone Amphan is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of South Asia to natural disasters, with the region regularly battered by cyclones that have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades. The storm comes just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India's west coast and killed more than 150 people. The disaster has also highlighted the challenges of dealing with multiple crises simultaneously, with the region already grappling with the effects of the global pandemic.
Title: Cyclone Amphan: A Double Disaster for South Asia Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

South Asia is currently grappling with the effects of two major crises - the global pandemic and Cyclone Amphan. The storm, which is of historic scale, is churning over the Bay of Bengal and is about to bear down on the coastal regions bordering Bangladesh and India. The cyclone comes just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae hit India's west coast and killed more than 150 people.

India is already struggling with a devastating coronavirus surge, and the cyclone has complicated efforts to deal with these crises. The storm's path over the next six to eight hours will be a crucial factor in determining just how dangerous it becomes, according to Pradeep Jena, the special relief commissioner for India's Odisha state.

In Bangladesh, 10 million people were affected by Cyclone Amphan and at least 25 people were killed. Over a million people were affected by Amphan across nine districts in the divisions of and , with the cyclone causing an estimated 11 billion (US$130 million) in damage. The Bangladeshi government predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll. Bangladesh's low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, and India's east are regularly battered by cyclones that have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades.

In West Bengal, the epicenter of the cyclone's landfall, saw the most widespread damage from Amphan. The Indian government has said the cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal. "Earlier we had around 5,000 cyclone centres and this time we will have more than 12,000: this is how we will maintain social distancing in the shelters," said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister.

Cyclone Amphan is a disaster bigger than Covid-19, said Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of the east Indian state of West Bengal. The storm has led to the destruction of buildings and trees, mass evacuations, and possibly deaths. It's the first named tropical cyclone of the year in the region, and a natural disaster like this couldn't have come at a worse time as India is the global epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The cyclone also caused widespread infrastructure and agricultural damage to the western coast of India. Due to the very large area of over the cyclone, it dumped heavy rainfall over the southern portions of the country. The storm flooded streets and damaged buildings in coastal areas. By the end of the storm, hundreds of thousands have been evacuated as Cyclone Amphan approached, one of the region's most powerful storms in decades.

Natural disasters during the month, including Cyclone Amphan, have affected 328 either dead or missing. Torrential rain and the aftermath of Cyclone Remal led to widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption of infrastructure in Assam and Manipur, affecting thousands of people. Cyclone Amphan LIVE: Indian spinning ace Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday waded into the ongoing flood situation in his native Chennai and also shared a video clip carrying a message on climate change on his social media handle.

The IMD issued cyclone warnings off the coast of Tamil Nadu, and Cyclone Michaung LIVE: As per IMD Chennai, heavy rain is likely to occur at one or two places over Nilgiris and Ghat areas of Coimbatore districts. The city has been witnessing "major flood" situations, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said.

As the region continues to grapple with the effects of Cyclone Amphan and the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for effective disaster management and relief efforts is critical. The impact of these crises will be felt for years to come, and the global community must come together to support South Asia during this challenging time.
Cyclone Amphan Causes Devastation in South Asia Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic
South Asia is reeling under the impact of Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, that has battered the coastal regions of India and Bangladesh, causing widespread damage and destruction. The storm has added to the concerns of countries already grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cyclone Amphan, which hit the coast on May 20, caused floods in Sri Lanka and affected over a million people across nine districts in Bangladesh. The country's disaster management minister and other media outlets reported that they expect to evacuate about 2 million people from regions affected by the cyclone, which is expected to cause "large scale and extensive damage." The Bangladeshi government has predicted that the country could incur a US$1.5 billion damage toll.
In India, Cyclone Amphan hit the west coast just 10 days after Cyclone Tauktae, which left over 150 people dead. The Indian government has warned that the cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause large-scale destruction in the coastal regions of West Bengal, which saw the most widespread damage from Amphan.
Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, has said that the cyclone is a disaster bigger than COVID-19. The Indian government has said that the storm's impact could be catastrophic across the region, with over 148,000 people being evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha.
The storm also affected infrastructure and agriculture in the western coast of India and flooded streets and buildings in coastal areas. The large area of heavy rainfall over the cyclone has caused mass evacuations, destruction of buildings and trees, and possibly deaths.
Adding to the difficulties, India is currently grappling with a devastating surge in COVID-19 infections. The cyclone has complicated efforts to deal with the pandemic and the natural disaster simultaneously, and experts have warned that a storm of this magnitude could potentially cause "catastrophic flooding" and widespread loss of power throughout the region.
Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh’s junior disaster management minister, said that this time they would have more than 12,000 cyclone shelters, up from around 5,000 last time, to maintain social distancing in the shelters.
A storm of this scale is rare in the region, and experts have warned that it could potentially lead to landslides and widespread loss of power throughout the islands. The National Disaster Management Authority has warned of potential landslides and flash floods in coastal areas.
Natural disasters have hit India and Bangladesh hard over the years, with the region experiencing some of the world's strongest storms. The impact of Cyclone Amphan is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region to the forces of nature and the need for urgent action to address climate change and build resilience to the impacts of natural disasters.
**Cyclone Amphan Brings Devastation to India and Bangladesh Amid COVID-19 Crisis**

A powerful cyclone has made landfall in eastern India and Bangladesh, bringing widespread destruction and chaos to a region already reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. Cyclone Amphan, a storm of historic scale, has caused widespread damage and flooding in both countries, with at least 25 people reported dead in Bangladesh and millions more affected.

The cyclone made landfall on Wednesday evening, with winds of up to 190 km/h (118 mph) and heavy rainfall causing widespread destruction in the coastal regions of West Bengal and Odisha in India, and several districts in Bangladesh. The storm surge has also caused flooding in Sri Lanka, with reports of damage to buildings and infrastructure.

The Indian government has described the cyclone as a "disaster bigger than COVID-19", with the chief minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, warning of "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts. The government has evacuated over 148,000 people in Odisha, and Bangladesh has evacuated around 2 million people from regions in the cyclone's path.

The cyclone has come at a particularly challenging time for the region, which is already struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19. India is the global epicenter of the pandemic, with over 200,000 cases reported in the past week alone. The cyclone has complicated efforts to deal with the pandemic, with many hospitals and healthcare facilities in the affected areas struggling to cope with the influx of patients.

In Bangladesh, the cyclone has caused widespread damage to infrastructure and agriculture, with the government estimating that the country could incur a damage toll of up to $1.5 billion. The country's disaster management minister, Enamur Rahman, has warned that the cyclone could be "catastrophic" for the region, with millions of people at risk of exposure to the storm's winds and flooding.

The cyclone has also caused widespread power outages and disruption to communication services, making it difficult for rescue teams to reach affected areas. The Indian government has deployed the military to assist with relief efforts, with troops and equipment being airlifted to affected areas.

As the region struggles to come to terms with the scale of the devastation, there are concerns that the cyclone could exacerbate the COVID-19 crisis. The Indian government has warned that the cyclone could lead to a surge in cases, as people are forced to seek shelter in crowded relief camps.

The cyclone is the latest in a series of natural disasters to hit the region in recent years, with Cyclone Tauktae killing over 150 people in India just 10 days ago. The region is prone to cyclones, which have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades.

As the region begins the long process of recovery and rebuilding, there are calls for greater investment in disaster preparedness and mitigation measures to reduce the impact of such disasters in the future. The cyclone is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters, and the need for urgent action to protect the lives and livelihoods of millions of people.
**CYCLONE AMPHAN BRINGS DESTRUCTION AND CHAOS TO INDIA AND BANGLADESH AS CORONAVIRUS CASES SURGE**

A powerful cyclone has made landfall in eastern India and Bangladesh, bringing widespread destruction and chaos to the region as it struggles to contain the spread of the coronavirus. Cyclone Amphan, one of the strongest storms to hit the area in over a decade, has caused widespread flooding, damage to buildings and infrastructure, and loss of life.

The cyclone made landfall on Wednesday evening, bringing with it strong winds of up to 120 km/h and heavy rainfall. The storm surge caused by the cyclone has flooded coastal areas, with reports of buildings and trees being destroyed. The Indian government has said that the cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal.

In Bangladesh, at least 25 people have been killed and over a million people have been affected by the cyclone. The Bangladeshi government has predicted that the country could incur a damage toll of up to $1.5 billion. The country's low-lying coast, home to 30 million people, is particularly vulnerable to cyclones, which have killed hundreds of thousands of people in recent decades.

In India, the eastern state of West Bengal has been the worst affected, with the city of Kolkata experiencing widespread flooding and damage. The state's chief minister, Mamata Banerjee, has described the cyclone as a "disaster bigger than Covid-19".

The Indian government has evacuated over 148,000 people in the eastern state of Odisha, and has set up over 12,000 cyclone shelters to accommodate those affected by the storm. The government has also warned of the risk of "catastrophic flooding" and landslides in the region.

The cyclone has also caused widespread power outages, with reports of trees and power lines being uprooted. The storm has also disrupted communication services, with many areas experiencing power and internet outages.

The cyclone has come at a particularly bad time for India, which is struggling to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The country has reported over 100,000 cases of the virus, and the cyclone has disrupted efforts to contain the outbreak.

In Sri Lanka, the cyclone has caused widespread flooding and damage, with reports of buildings and trees being destroyed. The country's disaster management authorities have warned of the risk of landslides and flooding in the coming days.

The cyclone is expected to continue to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region over the next few days, with the Indian government warning of the risk of further damage and disruption.

**LATEST UPDATES**

* Over 148,000 people evacuated in Odisha, India
* At least 25 people killed in Bangladesh
* Over a million people affected by the cyclone in Bangladesh
* Widespread flooding and damage reported in India and Bangladesh
* Power outages and communication disruptions reported in affected areas
* Indian government warns of risk of "catastrophic flooding" and landslides
* Cyclone expected to continue to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region over the next few days.
**Cyclone Amphan Brings Destruction to India and Bangladesh as Region Struggles with COVID-19**

A powerful cyclone has made landfall in India and Bangladesh, bringing with it widespread destruction and chaos to a region already reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. Cyclone Amphan, described as a storm of historic scale, has caused widespread damage and flooding in several districts, with millions of people affected and at least 25 reported dead in Bangladesh.

The cyclone made landfall on Wednesday, bringing with it strong winds of up to 190 km/h and heavy rainfall, causing widespread damage to buildings, trees, and infrastructure. The storm surge also caused flooding in coastal areas, with many people forced to evacuate their homes.

In India, the eastern state of West Bengal has been the hardest hit, with the city of Kolkata experiencing widespread damage and flooding. The state's chief minister, Mamata Banerjee, described the cyclone as a "disaster bigger than COVID-19".

In Bangladesh, the government has reported that over 10 million people have been affected by the cyclone, with at least 25 people killed. The country's disaster management minister has predicted that the cyclone could cause an estimated $1.5 billion in damage.

The cyclone has also caused widespread disruptions to the region's infrastructure, with many roads and bridges damaged or destroyed. The storm has also caused power outages, with many people left without electricity.

The Indian government has deployed emergency responders and relief teams to affected areas, with many people being evacuated to safe shelters. The government has also set up cyclone centers to provide shelter to those affected, with a focus on maintaining social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The cyclone has come at a time when the region is already struggling to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. India has reported over 100,000 cases of the Disease, with many hospitals and healthcare facilities overwhelmed.

The international community has offered support to the affected countries, with many organizations providing aid and assistance.

As the region begins the long process of recovery and rebuilding, the impact of Cyclone Amphan will be felt for many months to come. The cyclone is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters, and the need for greater investment in disaster preparedness and mitigation measures.

**Latest Updates:**

* Over 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha
* At least 25 people have been killed in Bangladesh
* Over 10 million people have been affected by the cyclone in Bangladesh
* The cyclone has caused an estimated $1.5 billion in damage in Bangladesh
* The Indian government has deployed emergency responders and relief teams to affected areas
* The international community has offered support to the affected countries

**Photos and Videos:**

* Widespread destruction and flooding in Kolkata, West Bengal
* People evacuating to safe shelters in Odisha
* Cyclone Amphan makes landfall in Bangladesh
* Flooding and damage in coastal areas of India and Bangladesh
**CYCLONE AMPHAN BRINGS DESTRUCTION AND FLOODS TO INDIA AND BANGLADESH AS CORONAVIRUS CASES RISE**

A powerful cyclone, Cyclone Amphan, has made landfall on the coast of India and Bangladesh, bringing with it widespread destruction, flooding, and chaos to the region. The storm, which has been described as a disaster of historic scale, has already caused widespread damage and loss of life, with at least 25 people killed in Bangladesh and over 1 million affected across nine districts.

The cyclone's landfall comes at a time when both India and Bangladesh are struggling to contain the spread of the coronavirus, with cases and deaths continuing to rise in both countries. The storm has complicated efforts to deal with the pandemic, with evacuations and relief efforts hindered by the need to maintain social distancing and other COVID-19 protocols.

In India, the cyclone has caused widespread damage, with buildings and trees destroyed, and mass evacuations underway. The eastern state of West Bengal, where the cyclone made landfall, has been particularly hard hit, with the city of Kolkata severely affected. The Indian government has said that the cyclone's strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tidal waves are likely to cause "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal.

In Bangladesh, the cyclone has caused widespread flooding, with over 1 million_people affected across nine districts. The country's disaster management minister has said that the government expects to evacuate around 2 million people from regions in the cyclone's path. The Bangladeshi government has predicted that the country could incur a damage toll of up to US$1.5 billion.

The cyclone has also caused floods in Sri Lanka, with several districts affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds.

The cyclone's impact is being felt across the region, with hundreds of thousands of people evacuated and many more affected by the storm. The Indian government has said that over 148,000 people have been evacuated in the eastern state of Odisha, while the Bangladeshi government has said that over 2 million people are at risk of exposure to the storm's winds.

The storm is a major test for the governments of India and Bangladesh, which are already struggling to cope with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The cyclone's arrival has raised concerns about the ability of the two countries to respond to the disaster, given the constraints imposed by the pandemic.

"Cyclone Amphan is a disaster bigger than COVID-19," said Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal. "We are doing everything we can to evacuate people and provide relief, but it is a huge challenge."

The cyclone is the latest in a series of natural disasters to hit the region in recent years, and has raised concerns about the impact of climate change on the region. As the storm continues to bring destruction and chaos to the region, the governments of India and Bangladesh will be under pressure to respond effectively and provide relief to those affected.
**Cyclone Amphan Brings Destruction and Chaos to India and Bangladesh Amidst COVID-19 Crisis**

A powerful cyclone, Amphan, made landfall in eastern India and Bangladesh on Wednesday, bringing with it widespread destruction, flooding, and chaos to a region already reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. The cyclone, which is considered one of the strongest to hit the area in over a decade, has caused widespread damage, displaced millions, and claimed dozens of lives.

As the storm approached the coast, authorities in India and Bangladesh scrambled to evacuate millions of people from low-lying areas and cyclone shelters. In India, over 148,000 people were evacuated in the eastern state of Odisha, while in Bangladesh, the government predicted that around 2 million people would need to be relocated.

The cyclone made landfall in West Bengal, India, where the epicenter of the storm's impact was felt. The storm brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and tidal waves, causing widespread destruction of buildings, trees, and infrastructure. The storm also caused widespread flooding in Sri Lanka, with several districts affected.

According to reports, at least 25 people were killed in Bangladesh, while 10 million people were affected by the cyclone across nine districts. In India, the full extent of the damage was still being assessed, but officials warned of "large scale and extensive damage" across multiple districts in West Bengal.

"This is a disaster bigger than COVID-19," said Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal. "We are working tirelessly to evacuate people and provide aid to those affected."

The cyclone also caused widespread damage to agricultural lands and infrastructure, with estimated losses running into billions of dollars. The Bangladeshi government predicted that the country could incur a $1.5 billion damage toll.

The cyclone's timing has been particularly unfortunate, coming as it does amidst a devastating surge in COVID-19 cases in India and Bangladesh. The region's healthcare systems are already overwhelmed, and the cyclone has complicated efforts to deal with the pandemic.

"We are facing a double disaster," said Enamur Rahman, Bangladesh's junior disaster management minister. "We are working to maintain social distancing in the shelters and provide aid to those affected."

The international community has expressed concern over the impact of the cyclone, with the US weather service warning of "catastrophic flooding" and widespread loss of power throughout the region.

As the region struggles to come to terms with the aftermath of the cyclone, authorities are working to provide aid and shelter to those affected. The cyclone is a reminder of the region's vulnerability to natural disasters, and the need for greater preparedness and resilience in the face of climate change.

**Timeline of the Cyclone Amphan**

* May: Cyclone Amphan forms over the Bay of Bengal
* May: The cyclone makes landfall in eastern India and Bangladesh
* May: Widespread destruction and flooding reported in India and Bangladesh
* May: Estimated 2 million people evacuated in Bangladesh and 148,000 in India
* May: 25 people killed in Bangladesh and widespread damage reported
* May: Authorities struggle to provide aid and shelter to those affected amidst COVID-19 pandemic

**Photos and Videos**

* Widespread destruction in West Bengal, India
* Flooded streets in Sri Lanka
* Evacuees in cyclone shelters in Bangladesh
* Debris and damage in Odisha, India

**Related Stories**

* Cyclone Michaung: Heavy rains and flooding in Chennai
* Cyclone Remal: Widespread damage and disruption in Assam and Manipur

**LATEST UPDATES**

* Cyclone Amphan: 38.9 million people at risk of exposure to the storm's winds
* Cyclone Amphan: Indian government warns of "large scale and extensive damage"
* Cyclone Amphan: Bangladesh predicts $1.5 billion damage toll