The first major cyclone of the year lashed the coastlines of India and Bangladesh on Monday. Strong winds and heavy rain have persisted with water rising in many parts of the country and overwhelming drainage systems. The storm has caused power outages for millions of people and resulted in at least 32 casualties. Cyclone Remal is the first of the many storms expected to hit South Asian coasts. 

With speeds up to 135 kph, the cyclone destroyed 35,000 homes across 19 districts. Both nations moved nearly a million people to storm shelters amidst flooded roads and disrupted travel, most notably in the Bangladeshi capital of Shaka and the Indian city of Kolkata. Kolkata resumed flights after more than 50 were cancelled from Sunday. Train services have also since been restored.