Presentation on theme: "Cyclone Nargis The worlds second deadliest cyclone."— Presentation transcript:
Cyclone Nargis The worlds second deadliest cyclone
What is a cyclone? A cyclone is an atmospheric system characterized by the rapid inward circulation of air masses about a low-pressure center, usually accompanied by stormy, often destructive weather.
Type of natural disaster Cyclone Nargis is classified as a atmospheric hazard.
Date and Place of Cyclone Nargis Cyclone Nargis affected Southeast Asia, primarily Myanmar. It occurred in April 27 – May 3, 2008.The population of Myanmar at the time of occurrence of cyclone Nargis was 47 million.
Consequences and Aftermath Official estimates of: 85,000 deaths, 54,000 missing, 19,000 injured, and 1 million homeless. It blew away 700,000 homes. Killed ¾ of livestock, sank half the fishing fleet, and salted millions of acres of rice paddies with sea waters surges.
Consequences and Aftermath “Cyclone Nargis struck the country full force at its most vulnerable spot, the low lying delta region. There was no natural barrier to hinder the storm as it swept up from the coast through the country’s major city, Rangoon. This region is the rice bowl of Burma, and disruptions in rice production there will have negative ramifications for food availability throughout the country, especially in the context of regional and global price increases and shortages.
Consequences and Aftermath As a result of the cyclone: under-5 child mortality is 104 per thousand, the highest rate outside Africa except for Afghanistan. HIV infection rates are the highest in Southeast Asia and malaria, a treatable and preventable disease, is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity.
Other Potential Hazards in Southeast Asia Fires are a very frequent disaster in Southeast Asia. Other disasters include: Cyclones, earthquakes, floods, and droughts
Frequency Cyclones are a very frequent occurrence in the southeast Asia area.
Duration Cyclones generally have a long duration. Which allows them to cause more harm and devastation. Cyclone Nargis lasted two days in the Myanmar area (April 27 – May 3, 2008).
Extent Cyclones are enormous air masses that have the ability to affect a huge area. Cyclone Nargis affected the majority Myanmar, Southeast Asia.
Speed of Onset Cyclones build slowly before reaching a peak period. Cyclone Nargis built for several days, starting April 27 th, gathering speed and strength over the Indian Ocean, before hitting land, and eventually dissipating may 3 rd.
Spatial Dispersion Cyclones are a seasonal occurrence. Southeast Asia does frequently endure cyclones.
Bibliography Corbin B., Trites J., Taylor J. (2000) Global Connections