Top 10 Deadliest Cyclones in History & Cyclone Fengal Update

Cyclones are among the most destructive natural disasters, leaving an indelible mark on the regions they strike. These powerful storms form over warm ocean waters, gaining strength as they develop into tropical cyclones. Depending on their location, they are termed hurricanes (Eastern Pacific and Atlantic), typhoons (Southeast Asia), or simply cyclones (Indian Ocean and Western Pacific). Here, we recount the 10 deadliest cyclones ever recorded, showcasing their immense toll on human life and infrastructure.

Bangladesh Cyclone of 1942

The Bangladesh Cyclone of 1942 wreaked havoc on October 16, battering the eastern coastline with 70 mph winds and triggering a 20-foot storm surge. This deadly storm claimed 61,000 lives and obliterated over 3,000 homes. It stands as a stark reminder of how vulnerable coastal communities can be in the face of such disasters.

Cyclone Nargis (Myanmar, 2008)

On May 2, 2008, Cyclone Nargis struck Myanmar, cutting across the southern region over two days. The Ayeyarwady Delta was particularly hard-hit, with an estimated 2.4 million people affected. The storm claimed 84,500 lives, left 53,800 missing, and inflicted widespread devastation. Its impact underscored the critical need for improved disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.

Bangladesh Cyclone of 1991

Cyclone 02B, known as the Bangladesh Cyclone of 1991, hit the southeastern Chittagong region on April 29. With winds exceeding 140 mph, it killed over 135,000 people and left 10 million homeless. Additionally, one million cattle perished, and widespread crop destruction heightened the risk of famine among survivors. The storm caused an estimated $1.5 billion in damages, marking one of the most devastating cyclones in the region’s history.

Chittagong Cyclone (Bangladesh, 1897)

In 1897, the Chittagong Cyclone ravaged the coastal city of Chittagong, leaving 175,000 dead and demolishing more than half the town’s buildings. Limited data exists on the event, but its death toll and structural devastation make it one of history’s most catastrophic cyclones.

Great Backerganj Cyclone (Bangladesh, 1876)