Extreme weather

Cyclones, floods and heatwaves – and how to stay safe.

When weather gets wild

Sometimes the weather is very strong. We call it extreme weather. It can damage homes, crops and roads.

In spring, Bangladesh has sudden storms called Kalbaishakhi, with strong winds and lightning.

A cyclone is a giant spinning storm. It forms over the warm sea and moves towards the land. Cyclones bring very strong winds and big waves.

Weather scientists watch cyclones from space with satellites, so people can get warnings early.

Heavy monsoon rain can cause a flood. A drought is the opposite: no rain for a long time. Plants dry up and wells run low.

Floods can wash away crops and homes. But flood water also leaves rich soil on the fields.

Listen to the warnings on the radio or TV. Go to a cyclone shelter when told to. In a heatwave, drink water and stay in the shade.

Cyclone shelters stand on tall pillars, so people stay above the water if the sea floods the land.