Cyclone Remal Exposes the Dual Threat of Climate Change and Vulnerable Infrastructure

Cyclone Remal’s devastating impact on Bangladesh and India highlights the increasing severity of climate-induced natural disasters. Making landfall on May 26, the cyclone left at least 38 dead and millions affected, with severe destruction spanning homes, seawalls, and infrastructure. The unprecedented speed and duration of Cyclone Remal, lasting over 36 hours, underscore the urgent need for climate resilience as slower-moving storms cause more extensive damage.

Despite improvements in forecasting and evacuation, the storm’s swift formation and intensity challenge existing preparedness measures. Coastal mangrove forests, crucial in mitigating storm impacts, face threats from climate change and deforestation, as warned by the IUCN. This underscores the necessity of preserving these natural barriers to protect vulnerable populations. Cyclone Remal serves as a stark reminder of the dual threats posed by escalating climate change and inadequate infrastructure, necessitating urgent global and local action to safeguard communities.