In Bangladesh and India, cyclone floods coastal villages, blows away thatched roofs and cuts power
PBS NewsHourJUN 1 2024
Destructive Cyclone Remal Impacts India, Bangladesh
Above: Severe Cyclonic Storm Remal making landfall over Bangladesh at peak intensity during the evening of May 26, 2024. Image copyright: EOSDIS Worldview via Wikimedia Commons
The Spin
Narrative A
India's cyclone season is intensifying due to the rapidly warming Indian Ocean. Cyclones in recent years, like Tauktae and Yaas, caused widespread disruption and mass evacuations. Rising sea temperatures driven by climate change, particularly in the Arabian Sea, lead to more frequent and severe cyclones.
Narrative B
Despite speculation about the future cyclones in the region and the factors that exacerbate them, the reality is forecasting technology has a long way to go. Existing forecasting systems often underestimate cyclone speeds and intensity, although forecast accuracy has improved. Improving forecasting models is vital to building situational awareness and enhancing disaster preparedness in the future.