As Cyclone Mocha approached Bangladesh, the country launched a massive evacuation operation to ensure the safety of its citizens. The severe storm was expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the coastal region, which could potentially cause widespread damage and flooding.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) issued a warning for the coastal districts, including Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Noakhali, Lakshmipur, Feni, Chandpur, Barguna, Bhola, Patuakhali, Barishal, Pirojpur, Jhalakathi, Bagerhat, Khulna, and Satkhira.
The BMD warned that the cyclone could cause “great danger” to the coastal districts, with wind speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour and tidal waves of up to four to five feet high. The department also advised fishermen to stay ashore and not to venture into the sea until further notice.
According to reports, more than 1.8 million people living in the coastal areas were evacuated to safety. The government set up over 13,000 cyclone shelters to house the evacuees, along with providing them with food, water, and medical assistance.
The Bangladesh Army, Navy, and Air Force were also involved in the evacuation process, with boats and helicopters being used to transport people to safety.
The severe storm has already caused damage in neighboring countries, including India and Sri Lanka. In India’s Kerala state, at least six people were killed and dozens were injured due to the heavy rainfall and strong winds caused by the cyclone.
The authorities in Bangladesh have urged people to stay indoors and follow the safety guidelines issued by the government. The cyclone is expected to make landfall in the coastal region soon, and the government has already taken necessary measures to minimize the damage caused by the storm.
