Bringing torrential downpour and powerful storm surges alongside strong gusts of winds of up to 185 kilometres per hour (115 miles per hour), Tropical Cyclone Amphan killed at least 84 people across India and Bangladesh, and left millions of people without power. The storm is currently heading north into Bhutan, but is weakening. Tropical Cyclone Amphan is the first super cyclone to form in the Bay of Bengal since 1999.

The Indian city of Kolkata has been especially devastated by the cyclone, with an estimated 14 million people without power and telecommunication services. Indian officials say that emergency relief efforts are being hindered by the Covid-19 coronavirus restrictions, and mass evacuation efforts have also been impacted due to social distancing measures and shelters unable to function at full capacity. India has reported at least 72 confirmed deaths. As of now, Indian officials are still assessing the level of damage brought by the storm, though efforts are being hampered by flooding and destroyed roads.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh has reported that tens of thousands of homes have been seriously damaged or destroyed, and many low-lying villages in the coastal areas of Khulna and Satkhira have been partially submerged or heavily flooded. The total extent of damage in Bangladesh is still under evaluation, though local media outlets estimate damages worth the equivalent of about 1.5 billion United States dollars.

Residents of affected areas alongside travelers are reminded to seek shelter during the storm, and seek high ground when necessary. Remember to avoid downed power lines, and avoid walking in flooded areas as debris may be concealed. Reminder to follow the instruction of local authorities and maintain social distancing regulations.

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