Cyclonic Storm Amphan left its traces of destruction in Bengal and Odisha. On Wednesday, West Bengal bore the brunt which resulted in landfalls and severe damages. Kolkata and other districts saw strong winds and heavy rain. The wind travelled with a speed ranging from 155 to 185 kmph and damaged roofs of several buildings and rooted out a massive number of trees across Kolkata and its neighbouring district Howrah. It is estimated that the storm destroyed close to 5,500 houses and killed at least 10 people.

In view of warning of strong winds and heavy rains, the government of West Bengal on Tuesday evacuated lakhs of people residing in coastal districts and low lying areas to the safe zones. The government of Odisha also evacuated 11 lakh people from coastal areas to temporary shelter homes.

The weather body said that in the next 24 hours very heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places over western Assam and Meghalaya and heavy rainfall at other North-Eastern states. As per IMD’s observation, thunderstorm, lightning and gusty winds are likely at Bihar, Lakshadweep and Kerala.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the impact of Amphan was worse than the coronavirus pandemic.

Restoration work and road clearance are under process by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). NDRF Director-General SN Pradhan tweeted photographs of restoration work by NDRF personnel at various locations in West Bengal.