The severe cyclonic storm ‘Remal’ hit the shores between Bangladesh and West Bengal, unleashing winds reaching up to 135 kmph and torrential rains that caused flooding in homes and agricultural lands, leaving behind a path of devastation. In Kolkata, a 51-year-old man lost his life amidst the inundated streets due to continuous downpours.
The landfall process commenced at 8:30 pm on Sunday (May 26) along the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh, stretching from Sagar Island to Khepupara, near the southwest of Mongla in Bangladesh.
‘Remal’ caused widespread destruction, flattening vulnerable dwellings, uprooting trees, and toppling electric poles. Prior to the cyclone’s arrival, over one lakh people were evacuated from at-risk areas in the state.
“Severe cyclonic storm Remal made landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh on Sunday night (May 26) with wind speeds reaching up to 135 kmph,” stated the meteorological office.
Video footage depicted massive tidal waves crashing against the seawall in the coastal town of Digha. Heavy rainfall obscured the expansive coastline as the cyclone hit land, with rising waters sweeping fishing vessels inland and submerging mud-and-thatch residences and agricultural fields in low-lying regions.