On this day, June 15, the dangerous Cyclone Biparjoy, which takes its name from the Bengali word for “disaster,” is predicted to make landfall. With expected strong gusts, storm surges, and major rainfall along a 325-kilometer coastline length from Gujarat, India, to Karachi, Pakistan, this powerful storm poses a serious hazard. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of catastrophic destruction, including affects on house structures, infrastructure damage, power outages, and communication disruptions. Cyclone not only have physical impact, but it also have a psychological impact.
Preparation done by Government
The government has sent 397 teams from the state electricity department, 115 teams from the state road and building department, 12 teams from the state disaster response force, and 15 teams from the national disaster response force to various coastal districts. On the evening of June 15, Cyclone “Biparjoy” is anticipated to make landfall near the Jakhau coast. It is then anticipated to travel all the way along the Rann of Kutch and up to Rajasthan.
According to the most recent data, the Western Railway has cancelled 31 short-originated trains and 36 short-terminated trains. Additionally, the announcement states that the WR is taking several safety and security measures for railway passengers in its service zones. Further, Schools have closed in the Saurashtra region’s Coastal Kutch, Jamnagar, Devbhumi Dwarka, and Junagadh districts of Gujarat. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Health Minister, examined the readiness steps being done in Kutch and went to the Bhuj Air Force station to assess the Indian Air Force’s “Garuda” Emergency Response Team’s preparations. The statement of Mandaviya was that “our jawans are fully prepared for the safety of life and property from the cyclone.”
Psychological Impact of Cyclone
This article will examine the numerous ways that the Gujarat cyclone may affect mental health, illuminating the psychological toll that the impacted community has to bear:
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Being exposed to a cyclone can be a stressful occurrence that leaves people vulnerable to acquiring PTSD. Intense emotional and psychological pain can be brought on by the unrelenting winds, the ruin of homes, the death of loved ones, and watching the wreckage. We’ll go into detail about PTSD symptoms and the value of prompt treatment for trauma-related problems.
Anxiety: The population that is affected by cyclones may experience substantial anxiety and dread due to the uncertainty and unpredictability associated with them. Anxiety levels may increase due to the threat of a storm, ongoing concerns for one’s safety, and worries about the future. We will look at how anxiety affects mental health and talk about methods for controlling anxiety after cyclone.
Depression and Grief: A cyclone’s aftermath is frequently marked by loss, including the loss of lives as well as of houses, possessions, livelihoods, and so on. Moreover, such severe losses may result in grief and melancholy. Finally, we’ll talk about the psychological effects of loss and the significance of helping those who are depressed after a hurricane with counselling and support.
Social Isolation and Displacement: Cyclones have the power to uproot entire communities, displacing individuals from their homes and comfort zones. Social isolation, loneliness, and a lack of support systems can result from displacement. We’ll talk about how social isolation affects mental health and emphasise the value of community involvement and reestablishing social ties for post-cyclone recovery.
Survivor’s Guilt
When they realise they had a part in their own survival while others lost things or were injured, some storm survivors may feel guilty. This survivor’s guilt can lead to feelings of self-blame and shame as well as emotional anguish.
Impact on Children and Vulnerable people
Children and vulnerable people are particularly vulnerable to the effects of cyclones. In addition, Children could feel more anxious, fearful, and have trouble comprehending and processing what has happened. The psychological consequences of the cyclone may provide additional difficulties for vulnerable people, such as the elderly, those with pre-existing mental health disorders, and those with minimal finances.
Be Safe And Follow These Tips!!
- Stay informed: Follow local government alerts and updates on the weather.
- Make an emergency supply kit: Have food, water, first aid supplies, and flashlights on hand.
- Protect your property: Strengthen your doors and windows, and clear the area of any potential projectiles.
- Stay inside: seek for a ground-floor, windowless safe room.
- Cut off the utilities: As part of an evacuation, turn off the water, electricity and gas sources if directed to do so.
- Follow Guidelines: If authorities issue an order for an evacuation, go right away to designated shelters or safer areas.
- Avoid coastal regions: Keep away from the riverbanks, beaches, and low-lying places that are vulnerable to storm surges.
- Stay Connected: Stay in touch by sharing your plans with loved ones and keeping your phone charged.
- Exercise caution: Be cautious of dangers such as fallen power wires or debris.
- Adhere to official guidance: Always heed the advice and directions given by local authorities.
