Bangladesh: Cyclone Amphan causes fatalities and infrastructural damage in coastal districts May 22 /update 4

Event

Cyclone Amphan has displaced 500,000 people and killed at least 23 people in Bangladesh as of Friday, May 22, after hitting coastal districts across the country. According to authorities, Amphan has caused at least USD130 million in damages to infrastructure, housing and agriculture. The United Nations office in Bangladesh stated that approximately 10 million people have been affected by Amphan. The most affected districts are reported to have been Kulna, Jessore, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Pirojpur, Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, and Noakhali. Overcrowding in shelters has also raised concerns that the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may spread in Bangladesh, which has already reported 30,205 cases and 432 associated fatalities.

Continuing transportation, business, power, and communication service disruptions are to be expected in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate continuing disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.