Bhutan has faced several powerful storms over the years, causing significant impact on its lands and people. These storms have tested the resilience of the country, challenging its communities and infrastructure.
The aim of this article is to highlight the ten biggest storms that have struck Bhutan, detailing their profound effects. Such information is essential to comprehend the country’s climatic challenges and their far-reaching implications.
1. Cyclone Amphan
Cyclone Amphan was an extremely powerful and devastating tropical cyclone. It struck parts of Eastern India and Bangladesh in May 2020. This storm was the strongest tropical cyclone to strike the Ganges Delta.
Amphan caused widespread damage, particularly in West Bengal and Odisha. The cyclone had winds reaching up to 100 mph at landfall. It was also the costliest tropical cyclone recorded in India.
This storm notably affected northern Bangladesh, impacting regions like Rajshahi and Rangpur. The aftermath of Amphan led to significant humanitarian aid requirements.
Cyclone Amphan was the first super cyclone in the Bay of Bengal since 1999. The sheer intensity of this storm marked it as a catastrophic event in the region’s history.
2. Cyclone Fani
Cyclone Fani was a significant tropical cyclone that impacted the region in May 2019. Although it mainly affected the Indian state of Odisha, its effects were also felt in Bhutan.
Fani struck with wind speeds reaching up to 200 km/h. The storm caused widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and environment.
The Indian and Bhutanese governments took extensive measures to minimize the impact. This included evacuations and disaster response efforts. The lessons learned from Cyclone Fani have been crucial for future preparedness in the region.
For more detailed information on the impact of Cyclone Fani, visit Cyclone Fani – Wikipedia.
3. Tropical Storm Kompasu
Tropical Storm Kompasu, known as Maring in the Philippines, was a significant storm in 2021. This storm impacted the Philippines, Taiwan, and southeast China. It was part of the 2021 Pacific typhoon season.
Kompasu started from a low-pressure area east of the Philippines on October 6, 2021. The Japan Meteorological Agency labeled it a tropical storm. The storm had maximum wind speeds of around 110 km/h.
Kompasu brought heavy rains and strong winds to the affected regions. In the Philippines, the storm caused flooding and landslides. It resulted in significant damages and casualties.
On October 9-14, 2021, satellite images and weather maps tracked its path. Meteorologists observed factors including its wind speed and movement. For more details, visit the Kompasu 2021 page.
4. Cyclonic Storm Mora
Cyclonic Storm Mora struck in May 2017, causing significant damage across several regions. It originated as a low-pressure area over the southeastern Bay of Bengal.
The storm intensified as it moved northward and eventually made landfall near Chittagong in Bangladesh, a densely populated area.
Mora brought heavy rains and strong winds, leading to widespread flooding and destruction. The storm impacted Sri Lanka, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Northeast India.
In Bangladesh, the effects were particularly severe, with many homes destroyed and infrastructure damaged. The government had to mobilize emergency response efforts to assist the affected communities and restore essential services.
Cyclonic Storm Mora is remembered for its destructive impact and the rapid response it necessitated from the countries it affected. Learn more about this storm at Cyclone Mora.
5. Cyclone Roanu
Cyclone Roanu was a tropical storm that hit Bangladesh and neighboring regions in May 2016. Originating from a low-pressure area south of Sri Lanka, it moved northward and intensified into a cyclonic storm.
Roanu caused severe flooding in Bangladesh and led to the evacuation of about 2 million people. The storm resulted in 24 deaths and displaced around 500,000 people.
Strong winds and heavy rainfall associated with Roanu severely impacted coastal communities, damaging homes and infrastructure. The storm’s economic losses were estimated at $508.83 million.
6. Cyclone Yaas
Cyclone Yaas, a very severe cyclonic storm, formed on May 23, 2021. It intensified quickly and made landfall between Odisha and West Bengal on May 26, 2021.
The storm strongly affected India and nearby countries, including Nepal and Bhutan. It caused heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread damage. Reports indicate that several people lost their lives as a result.
In Bhutan, the Department of Disaster Management issued warnings about the cyclone’s potential impacts. Cyclone Yaas brought significant rainfall, which led to flooding in some regions. The country experienced landslides and disruptions in transportation and communication.
Cyclone Yaas followed closely on the heels of another powerful storm, Cyclone Tauktae. Both storms tested the resilience of the region, but prompt actions by local authorities helped mitigate some of the damage. Further information can be found on the Department of Disaster Management’s report.
7. Cyclone Vayu
Cyclone Vayu was a significant cyclonic storm that impacted the region near Bhutan in June 2019. It was classified as a “Very Severe Cyclonic Storm” with sustained winds reaching up to 110 miles per hour (170 kilometers per hour).
The cyclone primarily affected India, particularly the western coast, including the Saurashtra Peninsula. It prompted the evacuation of approximately 300,000 people due to the threat of severe damage.
Though it didn’t directly hit Bhutan, the cyclone’s intensity led to heightened readiness in the region. Neighboring areas took precautionary measures to mitigate potential impacts from the storm’s outer bands. For more information on Cyclone Vayu, visit Cyclone Vayu Wikipedia page.
8. Super Cyclonic Storm Gonu
Super Cyclonic Storm Gonu was a powerful tropical cyclone. It hit the Arabian Sea and became the strongest on record in that region. Gonu developed on June 1, 2007, from a persistent area of convection.
The storm had a maximum wind speed of 270 km/h. It reached Category 5 intensity before weakening. Gonu struck eastern Oman on June 6, causing significant damage and disruptions.
Gonu is notable for its intensity and destructive impact. It is considered one of the most intense recorded tropical cyclones in the Arabian Sea and the northern Indian Ocean. For more details, you can check Cyclone Gonu on Wikipedia.
9. Cyclonic Storm Komen
Cyclonic Storm Komen struck in July 2015. It started as a depression on July 26 over the Ganges delta. By July 29, it had intensified into a cyclonic storm.
Komen brought days of heavy rainfall to Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India. The storm’s winds reached 75 km/h (45 mph), causing significant damage.
In Bhutan, Komen resulted in severe flooding. Villages were submerged, and infrastructure was damaged. The storm demonstrated the vulnerability of the region to tropical cyclones.
10. Cyclone Bulbul
Cyclone Bulbul, also known as Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Bulbul, was one of the severe cyclones to impact Bhutan. It occurred in November 2019 and affected several regions in South Asia. Bhutan experienced heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Though the storm did not make direct landfall in Bhutan, the country still faced significant challenges. Crops were damaged, and some areas experienced flooding due to the heavy rains.
Bulbul’s impact on Bhutan was a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones. Preparation and timely warnings are crucial in mitigating damage and ensuring safety.
Historical Context of Storms in Bhutan
Bhutan has been significantly affected by various storms throughout its history. The country’s unique geography and evolving climate patterns play crucial roles in shaping storm activity.
Geographical Factors Influencing Storms
Bhutan’s location in the Eastern Himalayas makes it particularly susceptible to storms. The high mountain ranges and deep valleys create specific weather patterns. Moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean often lead to heavy rainfall.
Monsoon seasons are intense, usually from June to September. The geographical barrier of the Himalayas helps trap these moist air masses, resulting in frequent storms. These conditions often cause flash floods and landslides, affecting both rural and urban areas.
Another factor is the numerous river systems in Bhutan, which can quickly swell and flood. Rivers like the Drangme Chhu and Puna Tsang Chhu are often affected by sudden heavy rains. These geographical aspects not only influence the likelihood of storms but also their severity and impact on the region.
Climate Trends and Patterns
Recent years have seen noticeable changes in Bhutan’s climate, intensifying storm activity. Rising temperatures and increased glacial melt are significant contributors. According to recent studies, glaciers in northern Bhutan are melting faster than ever before, leading to more substantial water flow into rivers.
Heavy monsoon rains have become more unpredictable, often resulting in flash floods and landslides. An example of this trend is recorded in a report from 2017, which noted flash floods becoming increasingly common.
Additionally, the country has witnessed more extreme weather events, including hailstorms and heatwaves, as detailed in a compendium of climate extremes. These climatic changes make Bhutan increasingly vulnerable to severe storm impacts.
Impact of Major Storms on Bhutan
Major storms in Bhutan have significant effects on the country’s economy and local communities. They have led to severe economic losses and disrupted the lives of the people.
Economic Consequences
Storms in Bhutan have often caused substantial damage to infrastructure. Roads, bridges, and hydropower plants have been washed away, leading to expensive repairs.
For example, a storm washed away part of a hydropower plant in July 2023, leading to significant financial losses.
Agriculture, a key economic sector in Bhutan, suffers heavily. Crops get destroyed, resulting in lower yields and income for farmers.
This, in turn, affects the national economy, leading to higher food prices and shortages.
Tourism also takes a hit. Bhutan, known for its scenic beauty, becomes less accessible due to damaged infrastructure, impacting local businesses and reducing revenue from tourism.
Effects on Local Communities
The local communities face severe hardships during and after major storms.
Flash floods and landslides triggered by storms have led to loss of life and injuries, as seen in June 2021, where floods killed 10 people and injured 5.
Homes and property are often destroyed, leaving many without shelter.
Communities, especially in remote areas, struggle to access essential services like healthcare and education because of damaged roads and communication networks.
Emotional and psychological impacts are immense. The constant fear of storms and the trauma of past events make it challenging for people to rebuild their lives.
Charities and government agencies often have to provide support to help communities recover and become more resilient against future storms.
Bhutan’s Disaster Preparedness and Response
Bhutan has taken significant steps to prepare for and respond to disasters, focusing on government initiatives and community-led efforts. These measures aim to enhance the country’s resilience to both natural and man-made disasters.
Government Initiatives
The Royal Government of Bhutan has established comprehensive strategies to manage disasters. The government works with international agencies, including the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, to protect vital infrastructure systems by strengthening resilience.
The WFP supports Bhutan’s emergency preparedness, focusing on governance, data preparedness, logistics, emergency telecommunications, and food security.
Additionally, the Department of Disaster Management regularly conducts awareness programs, training government employees and the public. These programs aim to raise awareness and encourage proactive disaster risk reduction.
Community-Led Efforts
Communities play a vital role in disaster preparedness.
Local groups work closely with the government to implement disaster risk management at the grassroots level.
Awareness programs educate people about safety measures and disaster response.
For example, a program was conducted for the employees of the Bhutan National Bank Limited.
Community volunteers often get trained in first aid, search and rescue, and emergency communications.
These local efforts ensure that communities are prepared and can respond quickly during emergencies.
This collaborative approach fosters a well-rounded disaster preparedness and response system in Bhutan.