On May 26, at midnight, it is expected to make landfall on the coasts of Bangladesh, West Bengal, and Orissa. The India Meteorological Department has issued a warning, advising people in the surrounding areas to stay safe and evacuate to a safer area if necessary, ahead of the cyclone making landfall and storming the coasts.With gusts up to 135 kmph, Cyclone Remal is predicted to reach the coast at a speed of 110–120 kmph. Every individual should take precautions. The authorities have advised the public to be prepared for possible harm and to take the appropriate precautions. Precautions against numerous health emergencies that arise during and after cyclones are also necessary.
Health emergencies that we should be prepared for, during and after Cyclone Remal:
Contaminated floodwater: many areas of West Bengal, Orissa and Bangladesh will receive heavy rainfall, leading to flood. Food and liquids that come in contact with floodwater can also lead to diseases, such as wound infections, diarrhea, nose and throat infections. We should be extra careful about the water we drink and the food we eat. It is advised to boil and purify the water before consumption.
Loss of medication: One of the health emergencies that we should be prepared for during extreme weather conditions is the unavailability of medication. In case of evacuation, we should carry the medicines we need on a regular basis. However, we should never consume medication that has been contaminated by floodwater.
Injuries from fall: After a cyclone or a flood, cleaning up can be difficult. It can also lead to injuries and wounds. We should consider seeking help from the authorities.
Snake bites: Snakes and insects may seek refuge inside the house during extreme weather conditions. We should be extra careful not to injure them, which can lead to bites and wounds.
Mosquito-borne infections: Stagnant water after the flood and cyclone can breed mosquitoes, leading to mosquito-borne infections such as Malaria and Dengue.
