Strongest cyclone in over a decade slams into India, Bangladesh

A powerful cyclone slammed into the coast of eastern India and Bangladesh on Wednesday, with winds gusting up to 185 kmph.

According to the Indian weather bureau, Cyclone Amphan had begun moving inland at 3:00 pm (local time).

Power outages have been reported in the Indian states of Odisha and West Bengal as strong winds tore off roofs and uprooted trees. 

Officials in both countries have admitted to facing challenges in carrying out evacuation procedures while maintaining social distancing protocols to fight the coronavirus pandemic.

Around 2.4 million people in the most vulnerable districts of Bangladesh have been moved to more than 15,000 storm shelters.

Meanwhile, officials in India said extra shelters were prepared in markets and government buildings, and ensured masks were distributed to villagers.