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'''Cyclone Aila''' (RSMC Designation: '''BOB02''', [[Joint Typhoon Warning Center|JTWC Designation]]: '''02B''', also known as '''Severe Cyclonic Storm Aila''') was the second [[tropical cyclone]] to form within the Northern [[Indian Ocean]] during 2009. The disturbance that was to become Cyclone Aila formed on 21 May 2009 about {{convert|950|km|mi}} to the south of [[Kolkata]], in [[India]]. Over the next couple of days the disturbance slowly developed before a Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert was issued by the [[Joint Typhoon Warning Center]] early on 23 May 2009 and being designated as a depression by [[RSMC New Delhi]]. {{as of|2009|5|27}}, 326 people have been killed by Aila and at least 10 more are missing, while about 650,000 are homeless. Health officials in [[Bangladesh]] confirmed a deadly outbreak on diarrhea on May 29, with more than 12,00 people being infected and four dying. Damage totaled $475.4 million (USD).{{Fact|date=May 2009}}
'''Cyclone Aila''' (RSMC Designation: '''BOB02''', [[Joint Typhoon Warning Center|JTWC Designation]]: '''02B''', also known as '''Severe Cyclonic Storm Aila''') was the second [[tropical cyclone]] to form within the Northern [[Indian Ocean]] during 2009. The disturbance that was to become Cyclone Aila formed on 21 May 2009 about {{convert|950|km|mi}} to the south of [[Kolkata]], in [[India]]. Over the next couple of days the disturbance slowly developed before a Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert was issued by the [[Joint Typhoon Warning Center]] early on 23 May 2009 and being designated as a depression by [[RSMC New Delhi]]. {{as of|2009|5|27}}, 326 people have been killed by Aila and at least 10 more are missing, while about 650,000 are homeless. Health officials in [[Bangladesh]] confirmed a deadly outbreak on diarrhea on May 29, with more than 12,000 people being infected and four dying. Damage totaled $475.4 million (USD).{{Fact|date=May 2009}}


==Meteorological history==
==Meteorological history==

Revision as of 14:23, 31 May 2009

Severe Cyclonic Storm Aila
Severe cyclonic storm (IMD scale)
Category 1 tropical cyclone (SSHWS)
Severe Cyclonic Storm Aila at peak intensity
Formed23 May 2009
Dissipated26 May 2009
Highest winds3-minute sustained: 100 km/h (65 mph)
1-minute sustained: 120 km/h (75 mph)
Lowest pressure974 hPa (mbar); 28.76 inHg
Fatalities326 total, >10 missing
DamageAt least $475.4 million (2009 USD)
Areas affectedIndia, Bangladesh
Part of the 2009 North Indian Ocean cyclone season

Cyclone Aila (RSMC Designation: BOB02, JTWC Designation: 02B, also known as Severe Cyclonic Storm Aila) was the second tropical cyclone to form within the Northern Indian Ocean during 2009. The disturbance that was to become Cyclone Aila formed on 21 May 2009 about 950 kilometres (590 mi) to the south of Kolkata, in India. Over the next couple of days the disturbance slowly developed before a Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert was issued by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center early on 23 May 2009 and being designated as a depression by RSMC New Delhi. As of 27 May 2009, 326 people have been killed by Aila and at least 10 more are missing, while about 650,000 are homeless. Health officials in Bangladesh confirmed a deadly outbreak on diarrhea on May 29, with more than 12,000 people being infected and four dying. Damage totaled $475.4 million (USD).[citation needed]

Meteorological history

Map plotting the storm's track and intensity, according to the Saffir–Simpson scale
Map key
Saffir–Simpson scale
  Tropical depression (≤38 mph, ≤62 km/h)
  Tropical storm (39–73 mph, 63–118 km/h)
  Category 1 (74–95 mph, 119–153 km/h)
  Category 2 (96–110 mph, 154–177 km/h)
  Category 3 (111–129 mph, 178–208 km/h)
  Category 4 (130–156 mph, 209–251 km/h)
  Category 5 (≥157 mph, ≥252 km/h)
  Unknown
Storm type
triangle Extratropical cyclone, remnant low, tropical disturbance, or monsoon depression

Late on 21 May 2009, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center reported that a Tropical Disturbance had persisted about 950 kilometres (590 mi) to the south of Kolkata, in India and had developed within the Southwest Monsoon.[1][2] The disturbance at this time had a broad and poorly organized area of deep convection, which was located to the southeast of the low level circulation center which had consolidated into a single circulation during the previous 12 hours.[1] Environmental analysis indicated that the system was in an area of favorable conditions to develop with low vertical wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures.[1] During 22 May 2009, the disturbance developed further with a Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert being issued early the next day by the JTWC as the low level circulation center had become stronger and more defined.[3] Later that morning RSMC New Delhi designated the disturbance as Depression BOB 02.[4]

During the that day Depression BOB02 continued to slowly intensify until early the next day when it was upgraded to a Deep Depression by RSMC New Delhi, and designated as Tropical Cyclone 02B by the JTWC.[2][5] This came as satellite imagery had shown further organization of the depression.[2] Later that day, RSMC New Delhi reported that the deep depression had intensified into a Cyclonic storm and had been named as Aila whilst located about 350 kilometres (220 mi) to the southeast of Sagar Island.[6]

Preparations

Officials in India evacuated thousands of residents from coastal areas ahead of Cyclone Aila.[7] In addition, several warning alerts were issued before the cyclone hit Kolkata; however, no alarm bells were rung.[8]

In the Bhola District of Bangladesh, an estimated 500,000 people evacuated to higher areas and shelters as Aila neared landfall. Tourists were advised to stay in their hotels due to the short amount of time to prepare for the storm.[9]

Impact

India

In India, at least 149 people were killed,[10][11][12] two by electrocution, and hundreds others were left homeless as torrential rains led to flooding. High winds uprooted numerous trees, blocking roads throughout the region.[13][14] More than 15,000 people in eight villages were reportedly isolated from relief crews by severe flooding.[15] At least 18 of the 45 fatalities in West Bengal were in Kolkata, the region where Aila made landfall. All transit systems in the city of Kolkata were halted and daily life was at a standstill due to the storm.[16] The areas and districts affected by the cyclone in West Bengal include East Midnapore, Howrah, Hooghly, Burdwan, South 24 Parganas and Kolkata.[17] In the West Bengal state, more than 100,000 people were left homeless as a result of Aila.[12] At least 100 river embankments were breached by storm surge produced by the cyclone. Throughout the country, at least 150,000 people were left homeless.[18] In northern areas of the state, heavy rains triggered numerous landslides in Darjeeling that killed 22 people and left 6 others missing. At least 500 homes were also damaged in the area.[19] At least 50,000 hectares of agricultural land was lost during the storm, costing an estimated Rs. 125 crore (US$26.3 million). Throughout the state, an estimated 40,000 homes were destroyed and 132,000 others were damaged. At least 350,000 people affected by Aila.[20][21] Later reports indicated that upwards of 2.3 million were displaced by the storm as 175,000 homes were destroyed and 270,000 were damaged.[22]

The outer bands of the storm also produced torrential rains and high winds in eastern portions of Orissa state, with the heaviest rainfall being recorded at Paradip at 260 mm (10 in) and winds peaked at 90 km/h (56 mph). Numerous trees were uprooted and power lines were downed, causing widespread power outages. High waves produced by the storm inundated coastal villages, forcing residents to evacuate to safer areas. Roads were also blocked by floodwaters or debris, hampering relief efforts.[23] An estimated 1,000 acres of Orissa cropland were lost due to Aila.[24]

The remnants of Aila produced gusty winds and heavy rains in the eastern Indian state of Meghalaya between 25 and 26 of May. Rainfall amounts peaked at 213.4 mm (8.40 in) and winds reached 60 km/h (37 mph). Several homes were damaged in the area and power was cut due to fallen trees and power lines. No injuries were reported in the state.[25] Several streets were flooded and some homes were reported to have standing water.[26]

Bangladesh

Torrential rains from Aila resulted in at least 175 fatalities from flooding.[14][27] More than 400,000 people were reportedly isolated by severe flooding in coastal regions of Bangladesh. Numerous villages were either completely submerged in floodwaters or destroyed.[9] Dozens of people are reportedly missing throughout the country.[28] A storm surge of 3 m (10 ft) impacted western regions of Bangladesh, submerging numerous villages. Several rivers broke through embankments, causing widespread inland flooding. In one region alone, more than 50,000 people were left homeless. Despite warnings to remain at port, numerous fishing vessels sailed into the storm. Port officials stated that more than 500 fishermen had gone missing since the storm made landfall.[29] In Patuakhali, a dam broke and submerged five villages. Numerous homes were destroyed by the subsequent flooding and tens of thousands of people were left stranded in the villages. In Chandpur, two pontoons sank while docked in port.[30] At least 800 people were injured by the storm and 2.6 million were affected. Unofficial reports indicate that the death toll in the country has reached 121; however, the Bangladeshi government denied this claim. An estimated 58,950 animals were killed by the storm with up to 50,000 deer missing. On the island of Nizum Dwip, nearly all structures on the island were severely damaged or destroyed, leaving roughly 20,000 people homeless.[31] Throughout the country, Aila left an estimated 500,000 people homeless.[32] Later press reports stated that more than 6,600 people were injured by the storm and 3.3 million were affected.[33] Later reports indicated that only 10 people were missing due to the storm, with the publisher of an earlier source stating that the statement of over 1,000 people missing was a typing mistake. Damages to water embankments throughout the country was estimated at Tk. 1 billion (US$14.4 million).[34]

Environmental impact

The Sunderbans, a region which houses 265 of the endangered Bengal Tigers, was inundated with 6.1 m (20 ft) of water. Dozens of the tigers are feared to have drowned in Aila's storm surge along with deers and crocodiles. As of 27 May, one tiger has been found alive; it was found in a waterlogged cowshed following the cyclone's landfall. Additionally the forest remains under an estimated 2.4 m (7.9 ft) of water.[35] On 27 May, conservationists have begun a search for the tigers throughout the forest. The search teams were supplied with fresh drinking water for the tigers as their natural water source was inundated with salt water from Aila's storm surge.[36]

Aftermath

India

State Government in co-operation with the central counterparts took up the rescue and the rehabilitation program. Army was deployed to the affected areas. The next day, the army used helicopters to provide food to the affected population. About 2,500 troops were deployed to West Bengal on 26 May.[37] Several naval relief teams were deployed to the Sunderbans region where an estimated 400,000 people were marooned by flooding.[38] Roughly 100 relief camps were established in West Bengal shortly after the storm passed.[39] On 27 May, 400 troops form the National Disaster Response Force were deployed to the state for relief operations.[40] The Government of India released Indian rupee 10,000,000 (US $209,775) in relief funds to the affected areas on 26 May. Two MI-17 helicopters were also sent to air-drop food supplies to the worst affected areas in West Bengal.[41]

Bangladesh

Immediately following the storm, a 33-member team of the Bangladesh Navy was deployed to the affected regions. The Red Cross also quickly responded, supplying water purifying tablets and other relief items. The Deputy Commissioner of Satkhira district allocated ten tonnes of rice and Tk.100,000 (US$1,450) in immediate relief funds for that district.[29] The government later allocated Tk. 1.2 million (US$17,143) and 1,000 tonnes of rice for the affected areas.[42] These amounts further increased to Tk. 12.3 million (US$175,714) and 2,500 tonnes of rice.[43]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c "Significant Tropical Weather Advisory for the Indian Ocean 2009-05-21 18z". Joint Typhoon Warning Center. 2009-05-21. Retrieved 2009-05-23.
  2. ^ a b c "JTWC Advisory 24-05-2009 00z". Joint Typhoon Warning Center. 2009-05-24. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  3. ^ "Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert 23-05-2009 05z". Joint Typhoon Warning Center. 2009-05-23. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  4. ^ "C Wind Advisory 2009-05-23 06z". India Meteorological Department. 2009-05-23. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  5. ^ "Tropical Weather Outlook 2009-05-24 06z". India Meteorological Department. 2009-05-24. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  6. ^ "Tropical Storm Aila Advisory 1 24-05-09 12z". India Meteorological Department. 2009-05-24. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  7. ^ Associated Press (2009-05-25). "2 killed in India as cyclone Aila approaches". The Daily Star. Retrieved 2009-05-25. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  8. ^ "Storm Aila kills 32 across Bengal". Times of India. 2009-05-26. Retrieved 2009-05-26.
  9. ^ a b Staff Writer (2009-05-25). "Cyclone slams Bangladesh and India, 33 dead". Reuters. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  10. ^ Staff Writer (May 26, 2009). "West Bengal: Cyclone toll rises to 45, rescue ops begin". The Times of India. Retrieved May 26, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  11. ^ Press Trust of India (2009-05-25). "21 killed, over a lakh hit as cyclone Aila strikes". Business Standard. Retrieved 2009-05-25. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  12. ^ a b Staff Writer (May 25, 2009). "Aila claims 29 in B;Statesman News Service". The Statesman. Retrieved May 25, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  13. ^ Staff Writer (2009-05-26). "17 killed as cyclonic storm hits Kolkata". Rediff News. Retrieved 2009-05-26.
  14. ^ a b Staff Writer (2009-05-26). "UPDATE 4-Cyclone slams Bangladesh and India, 33 dead". Reuters. Retrieved 2009-05-26.
  15. ^ Associated Press (2009-05-25). "Cyclone Aila lashes eastern India, Bangladesh". CBC News. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  16. ^ Associated Press (2009-05-25). "18 killed as cyclone Aila hits West Bengal coast". The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 2009-05-25. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  17. ^ CNN IBN Staff Writer (May 25, 2009). "mamata-buddhadeb-to-visit-cyclonehit-areas". CNN IBN. Retrieved May 25, 2009. {{cite web}}: |author= has generic name (help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  18. ^ Staff Writer (May 25, 2009). "Worst storm in 20 years hits Kolkata". Indian Express. Retrieved May 25, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  19. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "22 killed in Darjeeling landslides after cyclone". Sify News. Retrieved May 27, 2009.
  20. ^ Biswabrata Goswami (May 26, 2009). "Aila brings more than damage in Tamluk". The Statesman. Retrieved May 26, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  21. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "Toll at 81 as Aila hits North Bengal". Press Trust of India. Retrieved May 27, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  22. ^ Sujoy Dhar (Reuters) (May 27, 2009). "Millions displaced by cyclone in India, Bangladesh". The Washington Post. Retrieved May 27, 2009. {{cite web}}: |author= has generic name (help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  23. ^ Staff Writer (May 25, 2009). "Tidal waves lash Orissa coast". The Statesman. Retrieved May 25, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  24. ^ Staff Writer (May 25, 2009). "Coastal Orissa badly hit by cyclonic storm". Press Trust of India. Retrieved May 25, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  25. ^ Staff Writer (May 26, 2009). "Heavy rains lash Assam, Meghalaya". Sifly News. Retrieved May 26, 2009.
  26. ^ Staff Writer (May 26, 2009). "Cyclone Aila brings monsoon to North-East". The Times of India. Retrieved May 26, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  27. ^ ANI (2009-05-26). "Aila claims 11 lives in West Bengal". Duniyalive. Retrieved 2009-05-26.
  28. ^ Staff Writer (2009-05-25). "Cyclone Aila claims 28 lives". Radio Netherlands. Retrieved 2009-05-25.
  29. ^ a b Staff Writer (2009-05-25). "11 die as Cyclone Aila lashes coast". The Daily Star. Retrieved 2009-05-25. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  30. ^ Staff Writer (2009-05-25). "Wind, rains batter coastal regions". Bangladesh News 24. Retrieved 2009-05-25. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  31. ^ Xinhua (May 26, 2009). "Death toll rises to 91 in cyclone-hit Bangladesh". China Daily. Retrieved May 26, 2009.
  32. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "Cyclone Aila kills 200 in Bangladesh and India". Telegraph. Retrieved May 27, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  33. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "Death toll rises to 180 from Cyclone Aila". United Press International. Retrieved May 27, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  34. ^ Staff Writer (May 30, 2009). "Cyclone damages roads, embankment worth 100 crore taka in Barisal". The New Nation. Retrieved May 30, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  35. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "Cyclone Aila swallows Sunderbans tigers". The Times of India. Retrieved May 27, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  36. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "Fears for rare tigers after SAsia cyclone". Dawn Media Group. Retrieved May 27, 2009.
  37. ^ Staff Writer (May 26, 2009). "Centre rushes 2500 troops for relief work in cyclon hit WB". The Economic Times. Retrieved May 26, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  38. ^ Anis Ahmed (May 26, 2009). "Cyclone Aila kills nearly 120 in Bangladesh, India". Portfolio. Retrieved May 26, 2009.
  39. ^ Staff Writer (May 26, 2009). "Cyclone Aila Lashes Eastern India, Bangladesh". VOA News. Retrieved May 26, 2009.
  40. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "Disaster response force sent to West Bengal". The Hindu. Retrieved May 27, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  41. ^ Staff Writer (May 27, 2009). "Cyclone Aila toll rises to 87 in West Bengal". Thaindian News. Retrieved May 27, 2009. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  42. ^ Xinhua (May 26, 2009). "Cyclone leaves 81 people killed, 2.6 mln affected in Bangladesh". China Daily. Retrieved May 26, 2009.
  43. ^ Xinhua (May 27, 2009). "Cyclone kills 91 in Bangladesh, rescue operation continues". China Daily.
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