Stories
El Nino Unleashes Havoc: 17 Cyclonic Storms Wreak Havoc, India Faces Monsoon Deficit
- •El Nino's effects have led to at least 17 cyclonic storms in the Pacific, some reaching typhoon and hurricane strength.
- •India experienced below-average monsoon rainfall, with Bihar receiving 37% and Rajasthan 20% less.
- •Pacific storms caused hundreds of deaths and billions in economic damage, impacting trade and maritime transport.
- •China suffered $8.5 billion in direct economic damage from natural disasters, including three major storms in July.
- •August saw 12 cyclones in the Pacific and South China Sea, the highest monthly count since 1961, indicating unusual intensity.
Key Questions Answered
The strengthening El Nino has created favorable conditions for tropical cyclones, resulting in at least 17 cyclones in the zone, including typhoons and hurricanes that caused widespread damage and hundreds of deaths. Furthermore, August recorded 12 cyclones in the Pacific and South China Sea, which is the highest number in a single month since 1961.
El Nino has led to below-average rainfall across India during the monsoon season. Specifically, Bihar has recorded approximately 37 percent less rainfall, and Rajasthan has received 20 percent less, raising concerns over an impending drought crisis impacting 43% of the country's area.
Natural disasters and consecutive major storms in China caused significant damage, with direct economic losses in July alone estimated at about 8.5 billion dollars (₹81409 crore). Additionally, continuous severe typhoons caused congestion at major Asia-Pacific ports, disrupting maritime trade and shipping arrival rates.
