On the night of April 27, a fierce nor’wester swept through Rangpur, leaving a trail of destruction. The storm, accompanied by hail in some areas, caused significant damage to homes, crops, and infrastructure.
Local meteorologist Mostafizur Rhaman reported winds reaching around 8 miles per hour and approximately 20mm of rain during the brief storm that began at around 10:10 PM. The aftermath was devastating—tin and bamboo houses suffered considerable damage, and numerous trees and electric poles were uprooted across multiple unions, including Tambulpur and Chwala.
Residents described the chaos. Bijoy Mondol from Ekorcholi mentioned that the storm wrecked his community’s cropland, disrupting lives. Former chairman Bazlur Rashid noted that many homes were compromised in his area, emphasizing the widespread devastation.
The impact wasn’t limited to rural regions. In Kaunia, Mithapukur, and Gangachara upazilas, houses and mango orchards also faced destruction. Mango farmer Mostafizur lamented that parts of his four-acre orchard were damaged. This loss can significantly affect local economies, as mango exports are crucial for many families in the region.
Ayub Ali, a deputy general manager at the Rural Electrification Board, confirmed that power lines were severed due to downed poles. This left many areas in darkness throughout the night, highlighting the storm’s wide-reaching effects on infrastructure.
The Deputy Commissioner of Rangpur, Mohammad Rabiul Faisal, urged local administrative officers to document the damage. This is an essential first step in disaster response and recovery.
Recent data from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department indicates that occurrences of severe weather events are becoming more frequent in South Asia. In fact, a report from the World Meteorological Organization noted a rise in extreme weather patterns over the past decade, which poses serious challenges for communities like those in Rangpur.
As residents recover, it’s crucial to consider preparedness for future storms. Engaging with local authorities and strengthening infrastructure can help mitigate damage in coming years. Community support and timely aid play a vital role in rebuilding efforts, highlighting the importance of solidarity in times of crisis.
For further reading on weather patterns and disaster management strategies, check out the World Meteorological Organization’s [report here](https://www.wmo.int).
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