Human consequences
In some localities, nearly half the population perishes.
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Hurricane & cycloneBhola cyclone
300,000Deaths
Not quantifiedDisplaced / homeless
Not quantifiedEstimated cost
- Between 300,000 and 500,000 deaths: the deadliest tropical cyclone in history.
The cyclone strikes the low-lying islands of the delta at night with a storm surge estimated at about ten metres. Entire islands are swept clean.
Consequences
Environmental consequences
The delta islands are submerged and farmland is salinised.
Economic consequences
Rice crops and fishing fleets are wiped out.
Political consequences
The Pakistani government’s response, seen as negligent, strengthens the Awami League and hastens Bangladesh’s war of independence in 1971.
Further reading
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In the rankings : The deadliest hurricanes and cyclones No. 1
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