Tropical cyclones in Bangladesh: retrospective analysis of storm information, disaster statistics, and preparedness

This study provides a comprehensive retrospective analysis of tropical cyclones (TCs) in Bangladesh from 1979 to 2022. It investigates TC meteorological characteristics, disaster statistics, and preparedness measures to identify trends and challenges in disaster risk management. The study focuses on 25 significant landfalling TCs, examining their intensity, spatial footprint, human and economic impacts, and how these have evolved. It also evaluates the effectiveness of early warning systems and disaster funding mechanisms, emphasizing the need for better planning, communication, and infrastructural resilience.

The study finds that while the frequency and intensity of TCs in Bangladesh have remained relatively stable, the spatial impact and economic damages have increased, driven by rising coastal exposure and improved sub-national disaster reporting. Despite improvements in early warning systems and reductions in fatalities, preparedness gaps persist—particularly in implementing impact-based warnings and securing consistent disaster funding. Bangladesh heavily relies on foreign aid, and structural defenses remain underfunded. The study highlights that while soft preparedness measures have improved, inadequate investment in infrastructure and systemic risk planning leaves coastal populations vulnerable, potentially undermining long-term resilience.