1971 Odisha cyclone
1971 Odisha cyclone
The 1971 Odisha cyclone was a devastating tropical cyclone that struck the eastern coast of India, particularly impacting the state of Odisha, in October 1971. Forming over the Bay of Bengal, the cyclone rapidly intensified and made landfall on October 24, 1971, bringing with it catastrophic winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. It led to widespread destruction, displacing thousands of people and causing significant agricultural losses. Official reports estimated that nearly 10,000 lives were lost, while millions were affected by the destruction of homes and infrastructure. The cyclone prompted immediate relief efforts, with national and international organizations mobilizing to assist the affected communities in the aftermath of the disaster.