#impact of Cyclone Amphan

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Extreme Weather in India: Visualizing Life Loss Statistics

India, with its diverse climate and vast geographical expanse, is increasingly bearing the brunt of extreme weather conditions. In recent years, the frequency and intensity of these extreme events have surged, driven in part by climate change. This escalating pattern has had a dire impact on human life, with thousands losing their lives annually due to natural disasters like floods, droughts, and storms.

According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), over 1304 people lost their lives in 2022 alone due to natural calamities, marking a sharp rise from previous years. Cyclones, such as Cyclone Fani and Cyclone Amphan, have wreaked havoc along the eastern coast, displacing millions and causing numerous fatalities.

Floods remain a perennial threat, with states like Assam, Bihar, and Kerala witnessing devastating inundations. In 2022, floods claimed over 605 lives, as per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). We created this infographic that explores the stark increase in weather-related fatalities in India focusing on the most vulnerable regions.

Agriculture and the danger of lightning

Agriculture is one of the most vulnerable occupations when it comes to extreme weather, particularly lightning. Farmers and agricultural workers often spend long hours outdoors, increasing their risk of lightning strikes. According to the National Weather Service Lightning Fatalities of India, lightning accounted for over 53.2% of all deaths caused by natural disasters in 2022, with a significant proportion of victims being farmers.

In 2022, Bihar experienced notably high death rates due to thunderstorms and lightning, with 236 fatalities. Madhya Pradesh and UP are among other states with high amounts of deaths due to lightning. Several factors contribute to this alarming trend. These states are geographically prone to severe thunderstorms and lightning, especially during the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons. Bihar particularly experiences intense storms that bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and frequent lightning strikes. As a significant portion of the population relies on agriculture, requiring them to work outdoors, this increases their exposure to lightning strikes, as they often lack safe shelters during sudden storms.

Additionally, there is a lack of widespread awareness and education about lightning safety in rural areas. Many people are unaware of the necessary precautions to take during thunderstorms, such as avoiding open fields, seeking proper shelter, and staying away from trees and tall objects. Moreover, infrastructure in rural regions is often inadequate. The absence of lightning rods and other protective measures in homes and public buildings leaves people vulnerable.

Combining geographical vulnerability, occupational exposure, lack of awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient emergency response contribute to the high death rates from thunderstorms and lightning in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.

Preparedness and reducing deaths from Cyclones

The Super Cyclone of 1999 was a catastrophic event that devastated Odisha, India. With wind speeds exceeding 260 km/h and a storm surge up to 7 meters high, it caused unprecedented destruction. Over 10,000 people lost their lives, and millions were left homeless. The cyclone destroyed infrastructure, agriculture, and livestock, leading to severe economic losses and long-term hardship for the affected communities.

In recent years, Odisha has made significant strides in cyclone preparedness and disaster management. By 2022, the state had implemented several measures to mitigate the impact of cyclones. These included the construction of robust cyclone shelters and embankments, improving early warning systems, and conducting regular community awareness and preparedness programs. The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) has played a crucial role in coordinating these efforts.

The state has also invested in modern technology for real-time weather monitoring and forecasting, ensuring timely and accurate warnings. During cyclones, efficient evacuation plans and pre-positioning of relief materials have significantly reduced casualties and damage. The state’s proactive approach and community involvement have transformed Odisha into a model for disaster resilience, showcasing how effective planning and preparedness can mitigate the impact of natural disasters. The initiatives have become a case study for the other states and improved preparedness which reduced the deaths from extreme cyclones.

Climate Change and Extreme Weather

Climate change significantly contributes to extreme weather events, leading to increased floods, heavy rains, high winds, thunderstorms, and lightning. In 2022, these phenomena had a profound impact on Indian states.

Rising global temperatures cause more evaporation, leading to increased moisture in the atmosphere. This results in heavier and more unpredictable rainfall, often causing flash floods. Indian states like Assam and Bihar experienced severe floods due to excessive monsoon rains exacerbated by climate change.

Additionally, warming oceans contribute to the intensity of cyclones and storms. Higher sea surface temperatures provide more energy for storms, leading to stronger winds and increased rainfall. Coastal states like Odisha and West Bengal faced more intense cyclones, with destructive high winds and storm surges.

[helpneedypeople]

Building Resilient Communities: Disaster Preparedness and Response in India

In a country as diverse and geographically varied as India, building resilient communities cannot be overstated, especially regarding disaster preparedness and response. Over the years, India has experienced a range of natural calamities, from devastating earthquakes to powerful cyclones, which have underscored the need for a robust disaster management framework.

Evolution of India's Disaster Response

India's journey in disaster response has evolved significantly over the decades. Historically, the country has faced major disasters such as the Gujarat earthquake in 2001, the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, and recurring cyclones like Cyclone Phailin in 2013 and Cyclone Amphan in 2020. Each of these events has been a catalyst for learning and adapting new technologies and methodologies in disaster management.

The establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in 2005 marked a pivotal moment in India's approach to disaster preparedness. The NDMA has been instrumental in formulating policies, plans, and guidelines aimed at enhancing the country's resilience against disasters. Additionally, advancements in early warning systems, satellite technology, and communication networks have significantly bolstered India's ability to forecast, monitor, and respond swiftly to disasters.

Importance of Resilient Communities

Building resilient communities is not solely the responsibility of the government but requires active participation from all stakeholders, including community members, NGOs, and private sector entities. A resilient community is prepared, informed, and cohesive in the face of adversity. This involves:

Awareness and Education

In a world that is developing by the minute, it is important to prepare children and their communities for disaster management. By educating communities about disaster risks, preparedness measures, and evacuation protocols, the prevention method is at play enabling the citizens to mitigate risks and be self-reliant during any disaster. 

Infrastructure and Planning

Developers and planners must use strategies and resources that are constructed to keep the surroundings safe. By developing resilient infrastructure and land-use planning that considers disaster risk reduction, communities can be built that do not get impacted catastrophically.

Community Engagement

With continuous disaster management training and workshops in RWAs, offices, educational institutions, and public spaces, the community can be encouraged to be alert and calm during challenging times. By encouraging community participation in planning and response efforts, and fostering a sense of ownership and solidarity, disaster management can be effective and  resilient communities can be established. 

Role of Community Stakeholders

Community stakeholders play a crucial role in disaster management by complementing governmental efforts with localized knowledge and resources. Collaboration between local authorities, social development organizations like Smile Foundation, and community leaders is essential for effective disaster preparedness and response. These partnerships can ensure timely evacuation, distribution of relief supplies, and the restoration of essential services in affected areas.

The Way Forward

Looking ahead, the integration of technology, data-driven decision-making, and capacity-building initiatives will further strengthen India's disaster management capabilities. Investing in resilient infrastructure, enhancing early warning systems, and promoting sustainable development practices are critical components of building long-term resilience.

Smile Foundation's Role in Disaster Management

Smile Foundation has a longstanding commitment to disaster management across India, extending support during critical events such as the floods in Kerala, fires in Delhi, and the Kashmir earthquake. The recent devastating floods in Assam during the 2024 monsoon season have left over 1.5 million families displaced and communities in disarray. Homes, schools, hospitals, and essential services have been severely impacted, while agricultural fields lie submerged, posing a significant threat to food security. The most vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and women, face heightened health risks due to stagnant water and inadequate living conditions.

In response to this crisis, Smile Foundation has swiftly activated its resources on the ground. Our dedicated team is tirelessly providing urgent medical care, distributing essential relief kits, and delivering vital supplies to those affected. 

However, recognizing the scale of disasters and India's vast population, it is crucial to understand that disaster management is a shared responsibility. Smile Foundation emphasizes the importance of collaboration among communities, corporate entities, social organizations, and the government. By coming together, we can effectively prepare communities for disasters, mitigate risks, and safeguard the lives of our fellow citizens.

Join Smile Foundation in aiding those affected by the catastrophic Assam floods. Your support can make a life-changing difference. Act now to help rebuild and restore hope.

[webnewsify1]

Cyclone Mocha: IMD predicts an upcoming cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal

As a low-pressure area develops in the region, Cyclone Mocha, the year's first cyclone, is expected to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal this week. A cyclonic circulation is expected to form around May 6, according to the IMD. However, the cyclone's formation has yet to be confirmed. "On or around May 6, 2023, a cyclonic circulation is likely to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal." "A low-pressure area is likely to form over the same region during the next 48 hours (May 7 and 8) under its influence," the IMD stated on Tuesday. https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/1653319468192497664?s=20 The IMD issued its statement after the Global Forecast System, the US weather forecast model, and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts predicted the formation of a cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal. The cyclonic storm, if it forms, will be named 'Cyclone Mocha' according to the WMO/ESCAP nomenclature system. Yemen suggested the name, which is based on the Red Sea port city. Most cyclones that formed in the region in recent years, including Amphan in 2020, Asani in 2021, and Yaas in 2022, made landfall in May. Though the IMD has made no predictions about Cyclone Mocha's path, its impact on the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha cannot be ruled out. The Odisha government has already begun preparations to mitigate any damage caused by the cyclone. According to Windy.com, the cyclonic storm is expected to pass over the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday next week. It will then gradually move northward, closer to the Indian coast. A low-pressure area forming over the southeast region of the Bay of Bengal will intensify into a cyclonic storm on May 9 near the Andaman Islands, according to the IMD-Global Forecast System (GFS). According to the IMD's forecast, the storm will move north-northeastward towards the east-central Bay of Bengal until May 11. On May 11, a low-pressure area will form in the south Andaman Sea and the southeast Bay of Bengal, followed by a cyclonic storm, according to the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF).   Tags: cyclone mocha update, cyclone mocha 2023, mocha cyclone chennai, new Cyclone, Cyclone Mocha, Cyclone Bay of Bengal, Cyclone in May, Cyclone landfall, Cyclone Mocha Odisha, Odisha Cyclone Read the full article

[newsaryavart]

अम्फान तूफान: हावड़ा ब्रिज पर ढह गए बैरिकेड, देखिए तबाही की तस्वीरें

अम्फान तूफान: हावड़ा ब्रिज पर ढह गए बैरिकेड, देखिए तबाही की तस्वीरें

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Image Source : PTI The collapsed police barricades at Howrah Bridge after strong winds due to Cyclone Amphan, at Howrah Bridge, in Howrah on Wednesday.

कोलकाता/भुवनेश्वर/नयी दिल्ली।ओडिशा और पश्चिम बंगाल के तटीय क्षेत्रों में बीते बुधवार को 190 किलोमीटर प्रति घंटे की रफ्तार वाले विकराल चक्रवाती तूफान अम्फान के कारण भारी तबाही हुयी और कम से 12 लोगों की मौत हुई है।…

[jedi-anakin]

2020 – what happened so far

(it’s impossible to include all, but I try my best)

January

January 1 – Palau became the first country to ban sun creams containing ingredients that are harmful to coral and marine life.

January 2 – The government of New South Wales, Australia, declares a state of emergency whilst the government of Victoria, Australia declares a state of disaster amid large bushfires that have killed as many as 500 million animals.

January 3 – A US drone strike at Baghdad International Airport kills Iranian general Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.

January 5 – Iran pulls out of the 2015 nuclear deal, will not limit its uranium enrichment.

January 7 – 56 people are reported killed and over 200 injured in a crush at the funeral of general Qasem Soleimani in the city of Kerman, Iran.

January 7 – A 6.4 magnitude earthquake in Puerto Rico, island's largest in a century, kill 1 person and destroy 800 homes.

January 8 – Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 is shot down by Iran's armed forces shortly after takeoff from Tehran Imam Khomeini Airport, killing all 176 people on board.

January 8 – Duke and Duchess of Sussex announce they are stepping back as "senior" royals, will work towards becoming financially independent.

January 16 – The impeachment trial of the President of the United States, Donald Trump, begins in the US Senate.

January 26 – Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna Bryant dies in a helicopter crash.

January 30 – The World Health Organization (WHO) declares the outbreak of the disease as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

January 31 – The United Kingdom and Gibraltar formally withdraw from the European Union at 11PM (GMT), beginning an 11-month transition period.

January 2020 was the hottest January in recorded history according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

February

February 3 – Cruise ship Diamond Princess with 3711 passengers quarantined in Yokohama port, Japan after cases of coronavirus found on board.

February 5 – The US Senate acquits US president Donald Trump on articles of impeachment.

February 8 – 20 people dies in a mall shooting in Thailand.

February 9 – Deaths from the Coronavirus overtake those of Sars (2003) with 813 deaths worldwide.

February 10 – More than 30 bushfires put out by heaviest rainfall for 30 years in New South Wales, Australia, helping end one of the worst bushfire seasons ever, 46 million acres burnt, over 1 billion animals killed, 34 people dead.

February 11 – Snow falls in Baghdad, Iraq, for only the second time in a century.

February 23 – First major coronavirus outbreak in Europe in Italy with 152 cases and three deaths, prompting emergency measures, locking down 10 towns in Lombardy.

February 23 – China's Supreme Leader Xi Jinping describes the country's coronavirus outbreak as the China's largest health emergency since 1949.

February 24 – Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein found guilty of rape and a criminal sexual act.

February 29 – Luxembourg becomes the first country in the world to make all public transport in the country (buses, trams, and trains) free to use.

February 29 – A conditional peace agreement is signed between the United States and the Taliban in Doha, Qatar. The U.S. begins gradually withdrawing troops from Afghanistan.

March

March 8 – Italy places 16 million people in quarantine, more than a quarter of its population, in a bid to stop the spread of COVID-19. A day later, the quarantine is expanded to cover the entire country, becoming the first country to apply this measure nationwide.

March 9 – International share prices fall sharply in response to a Russo-Saudi oil price war and the impact of COVID-19. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) plunges more than 2,000 points, the largest fall in its history up to that point. Oil prices also plunge by as much as 30% in early trading, the biggest fall since 1991.

March 11 – The World Health Organization declares the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic with 121,564 cases worldwide and 4,373 deaths.

March 11 – Harvey Weinstein is sentenced to 23 years in prison for a criminal sex act and rape in New York.

March 12 – Global stock markets crash. The Dow Jones Industrial Average goes into free fall, closing at over −2,300 points, the worst losses for the index since 1987.

March 13 – The government of Nepal announces that Mount Everest will be closed to climbers and the public for the rest of the season due to concerns from the COVID-19 pandemic in Asia.

March 14 – Spain goes into lockdown after COVID-19 cases in the country surge.

March 16 – The Dow Jones Industrial Average falls by 2,997, the single largest point drop in history and the second-largest percentage drop ever at 12.93 percent, an even greater crash than Black Monday (1929).

March 17 – European leaders close the EU's external and Schengen borders for at least 30 days in an effort to curb the COVID-19 pandemic.

March 17 – The island of Luzon, the largest island of the Philippines, is placed under the enhanced community quarantine due to the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

March 18 – The European Broadcasting Union announces that the Eurovision Song Contest 2020 will be cancelled due to COVID-19 in Europe, the first cancellation in the contest's 64-year history.

March 20 – The worldwide death toll from COVID-19 surpasses 10,000 as the total number of cases reaches a quarter of a million.

March 20 – Smoke from Australian bushfires killed more people than the fires - 417 vs 33 according to new study published in "Medical Journal of Australia."

March 22 – A prison riot in Colombia, which was sparked by coronavirus fears, left 23 inmates dead and another 83 injured.

March 24 – Indian PM Narendra Modi orders a 21 day lockdown for world's second most populous country of 1.3 billion people.

March 26 – Global COVID-19 cases reach 500,000, with nearly 23,000 deaths confirmed. American cases exceed all other countries, with 81,578 cases and 1,180 deaths.

March 28 – North Korea launched an unidentified projectile off the coast of Japan. This is the sixth launch in the last month.

March 30 – The price of Brent Crude Oil falls 9% to $23 per barrel, the lowest level since November 2002.

March 30 – The International Olympic Committee and Japan suspend the 2020 Summer Olympics and are rescheduled for July 23 to August 8, 2021.

April

April 2 – The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 passes 1 million worldwide.

April 5 – British Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted to hospital suffering from coronavirus COVID-19.

April 7 – Japan declares a state of emergency in response to COVID-19, and finalises a stimulus package worth 108 trillion yen (US$990 billion), equal to 20% of the country's GDP.

April 10 – The death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 100,000 globally.

April 14 – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says it expects the world economy to shrink 3%, the worst contraction since the Great Depression of the 1930s.

April 14 – US President Donald Trump freezes funding for the World Health Organization pending a review, for mistakes in handling the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic and for being "China-centric", prompting international criticism.

April 15 – The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 passes 2 million worldwide.

April 16 – 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment in 4 weeks (5.2 million in the last week), wiping out 9 1/2 years of job gains.

April 20 – Oil prices reach a record low.

April 25 – The global death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 200,000.

April 27 – The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 passes 3 million worldwide.

April 28 – US Department of Defense releases three declassified videos of possible UFOs from 2004 and 2015.

April 30 – British Captain Tom Moore, who raised more £30 million for the National Health Service walking in his garden, turns 100 and made an honorary colonel by the Queen.

May

May 5 – The UK death toll from COVID-19 becomes the highest in Europe.

May 6 – Irish organisation repays a 170 year old favor, raising over $2 million (to date) for US Navajo Nation and Hopi Reservation badly affected by coronavirus. In 1840s Choctaw Nation sent $170 to aid Irish potato famine.

May 6 – Hungary has become the first EU member state to lose their democractic status according to the NGO Freedom House.

May 10 – The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 passes 4 million worldwide.

May 12 – Gunmen storm a maternity hospital and kill 24 people, including two newborn babies, in Dashte Barchi, a majority-Shia neighborhood of Kabul, Afghanistan.

May 13 – Every African country now has cases of coronavirus COVID-19.

May 14 – The UN warns of a global mental health crisis caused by isolation, fear, uncertainty and economic turmoil.

May 16 – 118-year old American department store JC Penney files for bankruptcy.

May 19 – Greenhouse gas emissions dropped 17% worldwide in April 2020 when world was in lockdown, in study published in "Nature Climate Change."

May 19 – Two dams on Tittabawassee River in central Michigan breached by floodwaters, forcing evacuation of thousands of residents.

May 21 – Cyclone Amphan makes landfall in eastern India and Bangladesh, killing over 100 people and forcing the evacuation of more than 4 million others. It causes over US$13 billion in damage, making it the costliest cyclone ever recorded in the North Indian Ocean.

May 26 – George Floyd, an African-American man dies after he was handcuffed and lying face down on a city street during an arrest, Derek Chauvin, a white Minneapolis police officer kept his knee on Floyd's neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds despite he was pleading for breath.

May 26 – Costa Rica becomes the first Central American country to legalise same-sex marriage.

May 26 – Twitter adds warning labels to warn about inaccuracies in US President Donald Trump's tweets for the first time.

May 26 – After a recording by a bystander about the arrest of George Floyd went viral the four officers who were present were fired. The same day a demonstrations and protests took place in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area.

May 27 – The Chinese National People's Congress votes in favour of national security legislation that prevents subversion, terrorism, separatism and foreign interference in Hong Kong.

May 27 – Spain begins 10 days of mourning for victims of COVID-19.

May 28 – The United States Department of Justice released a joint statement with the FBI, saying they had made the investigation into George Floyd's death "a top priority".

May 29 – Derek Chauvin was arrested and charged him with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter, becoming the first white officer in Minnesota to be charged for the death of a black civilian.

May 30 – The first crewed flight of the Dragon 2 is launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, the first manned spacecraft to take off from U.S. soil since 2011. The next day the spacecraft successfully reached the International Space Station (ISS).

May 31 – Since May 26 over a 100 city in all 50 states in the US was held supporting those seeking justice for George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement, and speaking out against police brutality.

May 31 – The hacktivist group Anonymous released a video after remaining silent for 3 years demanding justice for George Floyd.

May 31 – The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 passes 6 million worldwide.

[few-favorite-things]

cyclone amphan update: ঝড়ের আঁধারে ‘বিদ্যুতের ফেরিওয়ালা’ দিলীপ – cyclone amphan impact: meet this man who is distributing free electricity in west bengal’s udaynarayanpur হাইলাইটস বুধবার সকালে ঝোড়ো হাওয়া শুরু হতেই বিদ্যুৎ চলে গিয়েছিল। শুক্রবারও গ্রামে বিদ্যুৎ আসেনি। ফলে গ্রামের বাসিন্দারা সব থেকে সমস্যায় পড়েছেন পানীয় এবং নিত্য প্রয়োজনীয় জল পেতে। …

[khabrisala]

Cyclone Amphan: Bandhan Bank services impacted in some areas of West Bengal, Odisha Image Source : PTI (FILE) Cyclone Amphan: Bandhan Bank services impacted in some areas of West Bengal, Odisha (Representative image) Kolkata-headquartered Bandhan Bank on Thursday said its services have been impacted in some areas of West Bengal and Odisha due to Amphan and the cyclone is likely to impact business worth Rs 260 crore.

[srbachchan]

DAY 4461

Jalsa, Mumbai                May 24/25,  2020                 Sun/Mon 2:43 AM

Dramatize .. the end resort of the having no answers .. of the feel for creating pity and sympathy .. of covering shortfall .. of a lapse to be covered .. 

Works .. for the dramatizer .. not for the one it being directed to .. 

That be the ‘take away’ from the hours of visual throughout the day by the idiot box .. impressive and drawing one into their lives .. and a feel that we be them .. in speech action and presence .. 

Peculiar .. but so engrossing .. needed to carry on .. but the love of the Blog Post and the oft repeated apology for the writing on the day after the DAY is over, was too demanding and disciplined .. so here .. and long may the effect of the ‘elixir of life’ be within ..

‘The Last Dance’ of Jordan .. Air Jordan .. Michael Jordan reserves immense say in the grit and incentive laden thought and practice brought upon by the sportsman .. of initial question .. of work to perfect the craft .. of the selection management .. of victory and defeat and victory again .. of the criticism and abuse .. of the grandeur of praise and following ..

Of taking away the important feel from the ‘man’ .. they that swipe at him that deflate him , with ineffectiveness and unsolicited abuse .. for them a word ..

‘they say so because they cannot be HIM , that is why they say it ..’

.. be him first , for a day , a week , a month a year .. live his life and then bring on what needs to be thrown at him .. you will question only .. for, the answers are not your territory .. never will be .. cannot be .. you shall ever have questions only, because that is ALL that you have .. become him first .. become his stature .. become his calling , his generated love of his work and tact .. 

THEN .. then lets us see if you are able to answer .. you cannot .. because YOU ARE NOT HIM .. AND NEVER WILL BE .. !!

They are that 1 in the 7.8 billion .. try becoming that first .. 

The moon sighting in different parts of the World controls the celebration or the wishes for Eid .. the completion of Ramzan .. and the message of peace and love ..

.. to them that celebrate .. bring the joys of fulfilment and prayer and harmony .. 

The dread of the CoViD spreads .. its numbers increase but so do the numbers of them that recover .. the Almighty be praised .. precautions continue .. the masks and its wearings prevail .. and Avinash rings in his contribution .. he be the ace photographer of the stills at various ad., shoots ..

.. wear the mask .. be protective .. not just for yourself but for the others as well ..

.. and the terrible devastation of the Cyclone that hit Bengal .. the Amphan .. the timely saving of the Ef in the turmoil and the damage to life and property .. so distressing ..

Just 2 days before it hit Bengal, I was warning Shoojit my director , who live with his family in Kolkata to be very careful because this one was going to be nasty ..

The greatest precaution that should be taken apart from the essentials and the medical is the barricading of doors and windows .. windows more .. the impact shatters the glass and that is a great injury creator .. barricade the doors with cross bars to prevent them from opening or breaking .. and tape the glass windows in a design that prevents it from shattering .. 

.. if the blue lines are the outline of the window, then the tape should run as the Black lines .. diagonally and across as shown .. this gives maximum protection in the event of a hard impact ..

Ironically I learnt this during my years in Calcutta .. the head of a British Managing Agency Company that I visited for my work explained it to me during the time of a black out in the city .. in preparation for either an earthquake .. or in the eventuality of an unlikely war situation .. he said during the WW 2 , the homes in England were given this design to secure bomb attack impacts .. 

It is another matter that he took great pride in explaining this design because it is the design of their flag .. the British flag .. 😁

.. ah well the Brits .. !

It comes up to almost 4 am .. 

My love and night wishes to all ..

Amitabh Bachchan

[purna18]

THE PLAY: 2020

What an year 2020 has been. A big play? Right my friend! I know, like me many of us were planning to turn our dreams into actions, take big long jumps in our personal as well as professional lives. But alas! Our dreams turned into ashes. Sounding a bit dramatical? Ofcourse like this year in itself. Come along, lets read the pages of our half written book:2020. Lets start with the country of festivals- India. We all were celebrating new year, knowing deep into our hearts that corona exists in world, especially China. But did you expect that it will rise up to this level in your country, setting a benchmarking year in the history. Not only India, the corona destroyed the whole world in a manner no one imagined. Everything got stilled, it felt like the Earth skipped a heartbeat, the Earth stopped rotating. We all were shocked and frightened, seeing the near future going away in the unpredictable time zone. The world suffered in the major regions of one's life, like- •The downfall of Economy •Health crisis •Natural disasters •Loss of the major Bollywood actors •Increasing mental health issues •The fight of Racism •Crimes and Misfortune

THE PANDEMIC- COVID-19

Coronavirus hit the world and drastically everything changed. We are locked into houses helplessly. Everyone is fighting with the pandemic in their own way. Let's take the example of India. We all are battling the virus with our respected Prime Minister , Narendra Modi by his principles of Indian mythology. We were all United in every step he took like banging the bells and utensils, lightening lamps, etc. We are all medically aware and hygienic to defeat coronavirus. All of us accepted this new lifestyle happily for the world to get back to normal. In this difficult period, our Doctors and government with the help of civil servants were there with us at every step for our safety and protection, selflessly.

THE DOWNFALL OF ECONOMY

Due to the pandemic situation in this whole world, the scenario of Economy completely changed. The coins got flipped. Every country which was doing well in their respective fields lost it all. The treasure and funds all got into saving the people from this deadly virus. Hospitals were turned into isolation wards, sanitation of the country took over any other development. Also the migrant workers started moving back to their home towns as many of them lost their jobs. Unemployment in the world is at its peak. This made a huge hole into the pockets of common man as well as the economic conditions of a country.

NATURAL DISASTERS

It all started with the Australian Bush Fire. It showed no signs of slowing or stopping down. 400 people with many animals and natural habitation were killed due to the inhalation of hazardous smoke. Then comes the Indonesia. Indonesian floods forced 4 lakh people to leave their homes and move to other parts. Around 66 people lost their lives. Sad. Volcanic eruption in Philippines showed no sympathy towards the world. It left the world dry in ashes and smoke. Earthquakes had been a major part of this year. Interesting and shocking. Turkey, Carribbean, China, Russia, Philippines and India faced some of the worst earthquakes in the history this year. Locust swarms in East Africa and the parts of India and Asia damaged the crops and yeilds of farmers leaving them in huge loss. Cyclone Amphan hit India and Bangladesh. It created havoc in West Bengaland and Orissa. It killed 12 people in Bengal and was termed as a DEADLY CYCLONE STORM. Forest Fire in Uttarakhand burnes 51.43 hectares of land and left it dead for the animals. Cyclone Nisarg waited no longer and destroyed Maharashtra and other parts of India. Many people were affected by this as well. Floods in Assam affected 5 districts  and over 30,000 people. Crops and domestic animals are at their worst at this stage.

WE LOST SOME FANTASTIC ACTORS

Sushant Singh Rajput's death became a mystery over time. He was a very talented, intelligent and wise actor. Many people assure the government that it is a murder. This death has left  a huge impact in all of our lives because we take so many things around us for granted. The time of self- realisation and self-analysis has began. We also lost Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor. Demise makes my heart sink.

INCREASING MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES

Due to lockdown, many people are facing mental health problems because everyone is going through a very tough time. Battling with their own problems and with coronavirus all together is not an easy work.

THE FIGHT OF RACISM

America has a big issue all together with the coronavirus. It is "RACISM". Black people are fighting for equality and their rights in America which has turned the whole world on. Black lives matter is one of the most trending topic of 2020.

CRIMES AND MISFORTUNES

Even though in such difficult times people are taking steps towards crimes. Rape counts in India are stepping no back. The killing of a pregnant Elephant and many such mishappenings and misleading things are done. Nothing is in place.

THE POSITIVE SIDE

Due to lockdown and shutting down of industries and factories, the nature is healing every second. The ozone layer has shown an immense increase in its density which is a good thing. Everyone is working towards their hobbies and passions, developing their art and skills. This has bought a feeling of satisfaction and pleasure in our minds. We all should look towards the positive side of the crisis and evolve through the tough screening that God is sending us for.

THE HALF BOOK

Above all this, we should be optimistic and motivated for the remaining half of 2020. It's not over yet, we all can together change the stars of our lives by just doing what is right and helping each other. Let's together write the half incomplete book in a positive manner and help everyone around us fight their battles with courage and kindness. Let's bring the misfortunes to an end. Let's all hold our hands together and show the world the power of unity. It is correctly said that "United we stand, divided we fall." Let's end this year on a positive note. Let's all of us erase the coronavirus from world and be back to normal. I can't wait to see my world growing and glowing again. Prayers have made a big impact in saving our lives. Let's save each other. Hope to see you soon again. Thank you Purna Jain.

[newsaryavart]

चक्रवाती तूफान अम्फान से क्या होगा मानसून पर असर?

चक्रवाती तूफान अम्फान से क्या होगा मानसून पर असर?

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बंगाल की खड़ी में बना चक्रवाती तूफान ‘अम्फान’ अब सुपर साइक्लोन बन गया. अक्टूबर 1999 के बाद यह पहला मौका है जब बंगाल की खाड़ी में कोई सुपर साइक्लोन बना है. बंगाल की खड़ी में बना चक्रवाती तूफान ‘अम्फान’ अब…

[humanrightsupdates]

Bangladesh Coal Plants Threaten World’s Largest Mangrove Forest

The Bangladesh government threatens to destroy life-saving forests by building coal-fired power plants. Coal fired plants are a major contributor to the greenhouse gas emissions that fuel climate change.  © Sultan Mahmud Mukut / SOPA Images/Sipa USA)(Sipa via AP Images)

Cyclone Amphan, the most powerful to strike in the Bay of Bengal in 20 years, made landfall on the India-Bangladesh coast last month. Amphan ripped off roofs, washed away homes, and flooded farms. Crucially, Bangladesh was able to mitigate impact and save lives because of its robust emergency response system with early warnings and mass-evacuations.

But coastal communities were also protected by Bangladesh’s natural storm shield: the Sundarbans. A protected World Heritage site, this mangrove forest holds land together with its roots as the tides rise. As climate change increases the intensity of extreme weather events like Amphan, the Sundarbans are at risk when they’re needed most.

But the Bangladesh government threatens to destroy these life-saving forests by building coal-fired power plants that could subject them, and the nearly 2.5 million people who depend on them for their livelihoods, to harmful pollution. And while the mangroves slow climate change by soaking up carbon, coal-fired plants contribute greenhouse gas emissions that fuel global warming.

Of particular concern is the proposed Rampal Thermal Power Plant, just north of the Sundarbans. Scientists and activists have repeatedly voiced concerns that the plant could spell disaster for the world’s largest mangrove forest. But the government has fought calls to cancel or relocate the project, using tear gas and rubber bullets against protestors and insisting, contrary to scientific evidence, that the plant will do no harm.

Meanwhile, international efforts to protect the Sundarbans have been stymied. A recommendation by the International Union for Conservation of Nature to add the Sundarbans to the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger was rejected by UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee, which is chaired by China. The Chinese, Bosnian, and Cuban delegations even passed an amendment erasing mention of the Rampal power plant and two joint Bangladesh-China coal-fired power plants from the decision.

Climate change is a very real, immediate threat to the nearly165 million people in Bangladesh where a one-meter sea level rise could submerge almost 20 percent of the country and displace millions. Implementing rights-respecting climate policies that are consistent with the best available science is part of the government’s duty to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights.

Bangladesh has been a global leader in climate change adaptation and accordingly should act swiftly to protect the mangroves. If not, it risks making the climate crisis worse while facing even more powerful cyclones without the country’s natural defense system. - Human Rights Watch

[sunflowerwilson]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by রবি . Rabi . Rabiul Islam (@ravisualize) on May 21, 2020 at 12:42am PDT

hey guys!

so as some of you may know, the super cyclone Amphan had hit West Bengal and Odisha (both northeastern Indian states) on 20th May, 2020 and it has left a lot of destruction and damage and death in its wake.

things are bad – network services are down, many people lost their crops and homes and stores due to the winds, people forced to live in close quarters in shelter which puts them at risk for Covid-19 infection and the Sunderbans (check previous post on this acc) has taken the major impact of the storm. and we need help.

these are a few links i found on @/ravisualize on instagram and you can donate to them! please help if you can, and if you can't, then please reblog this post. signal boosts help a lot!

[few-favorite-things]

Cyclone Amphan Impact : Kolkata Airport Badly Affected, Starts Operation After 12 Hours – উম্পুনে তছনছ বিমানবন্দর আবার চালু ১২ ঘণ্টা পরে এই সময় ডিজিটাল ডেস্ক: জলমগ্ন টারম্যাক, হাঁটু জলের নীচে রানওয়ে, ব্যবহারের অযোগ্য দু’টো হ্যাঙ্গার, এক জায়গায় ধসে পড়েছে ছাদ --- ঘূর্ণিঝড়ের তাণ্ডব শেষে এমনই বিধ্বস্ত পরিস্থিতি কলকাতার নেতাজি সুভাষচন্দ্র বসু বিমানবন্দরের। আগামী ২৫ মে ফের অন্তর্দেশীয় উড়ান চালু হওয়ার কথা। তার আগে যত দ্রুত সম্ভব বিমানবন্দরকে আগের অবস্থায় ফিরিয়ে আনতে মরিয়া চেষ্টা কর্তৃপক্ষের।

[ultra-sandy-things]

FAITH

The meaning of the word “ FAITH” as per Oxford Dictionary is  “complete trust or confidence in someone or something. “

Faith is just as important as the air we breathe.

While Oxygen in the air nourishes the body, faith nourishes the heart and the soul. It is the energy that is required by every single cell within our body. It is part of every muscle and every strand of thought. It is the fundamental foundation of our existence. We are nothing in the absence of faith. Faith cannot be seen, it’s a feeling. Lot of importance is given to this attribute which is within us.

Life is precious, but it can also be remarkably difficult at times. Faith is what helps to get us through, illuminating the pathway in times of darkness, helping to give us strength in times of weakness. Without faith, we are nothing. We keep hearing in our life that people have moved mountains with their faith. Even when situations seems dire and bleak, it is faith that helps people to face it and come out victorious.

Life is a journey of ups and downs. But through all the trials and tribulations we might face, it is faith that gives us that helping hand. Faith guide us in the right direction, moving us towards and allowing us to discover our purpose in life.

In the prevailing conditions when more than 52 Lakh people are affected worldwide and 3.35 lakh people dead due to COVID 19 as on 22.5.20, people have become skeptical and are finding it difficult to accept the concept of faith as regards COVID-19. The situation has created lot of adversities in life, dis-balanced the world economy, created grief and panic in the entire world. To add to the fury, cyclone “Amphan” affected Bangladesh and Eastern part of India. 

The prevailing situation is creating stress, anxiety, fear and these feelings will have an impact on the mental and physical health of a person. But it is faith that helps to keep these disturbing feelings at   bay. Even when we have no reason to believe that things will get better, it is through faith that our situations do improve. Now is the time to really have faith, believe and expect that good things will happen, and they will.

Now is the time to have faith in GOD. It is said that worry ends when faith in GOD begins. We need to have patience and trust him and definitely we will come victorious from the present situation.

  i                        

[bbcbreakingnews]

2 of 15 most-destructive 2020 climate disasters impacted India, says report

NEW DELHI: A new global report in its analysis of 15 most destructive climate disasters of 2020 has found that nine of these extreme events, including two in India, caused damage worth at least $5 billion. Though hurricanes in the US and central American countries turned out to be the most expensive ($41 billion), floods in India during June-October period caused the loss of highest number of human lives. In fact, India’s floods, which killed 2,067, caused loss of more human lives than casualties in all other 14 destructive climate disasters put together. Floods in Pakistan which claimed 410 lives figured at second spot followed by the US and central American countries (400 lives lost in hurricanes) at the third position in the list of 15.

On cost of these financially devastating events, the report, ‘Counting the Cost 2020: A Year of Climate Breakdown’, prepared by the UKbased non-profit organisation Christian Aid, said, “Most of these estimates are based on insured losses so the true figure is likely to be much higher.” The compilation, released on Sunday, noted that the cyclone ‘Amphan’, which struck the Bay of Bengal in May, had caused financial losses valued at $13 billion in just a few days in India and Bangladesh and caused loss of 128 human lives. Other events unfolded over months, like floods in China and India, had an estimated cost of $32 billion and $10 billion respectively. The report shows five of the ten most costly events took place in Asia. As far as displacement/evacuation of people due to disasters is concerned, Cyclone ‘Amphan’ caused displacement of the highest number of people at 4.9 million in India and Bangladesh, followed by floods in China (3.7 million) and Japan (3.6 million). “The Covid-19 pandemic has understandably been a major worry this year. For millions of people in vulnerable parts of the world, climate breakdown has compounded this. The good news is that, like the vaccine for Covid-19, we do know how to fix the climate crisis. We need to keep fossil fuels in the ground, boost clean energy investment and help those who are suffering on the front line,” said Kat Kramer, Christian Aid’s climate policy lead and author of the report.

source https://bbcbreakingnews.com/2020/12/28/2-of-15-most-destructive-2020-climate-disasters-impacted-india-says-report/