The Konkan region, particularly the coastal areas of Maharashtra, including Devgad and Ratnagiri, has been occasionally affected by cyclones and severe weather events over the past decade. Here are some notable cyclones and their impacts in the Konkan region:
Cyclone Phyan (2009): While not directly hitting the Konkan region, Cyclone Phyan caused heavy rainfall and strong winds in Mumbai and surrounding areas, including parts of the Konkan coast.
Cyclone Phailin (2013): Although primarily affecting Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, Cyclone Phailin, remnants brought heavy rainfall to Maharashtra, including the Konkan region, causing flooding and damage to crops.
Cyclone Hudhud (2014): After making landfall in Andhra Pradesh, Cyclone Hudhud weakened into a depression and moved towards central India, affecting parts of Maharashtra, including the Konkan coast, with heavy rainfall and gusty winds.
Cyclone Ockhi (2017): Originating near Sri Lanka, Cyclone Ockhi moved northwards and impacted the western coast of India, including the Konkan region. It brought heavy rainfall and strong winds, leading to flooding and disruptions in coastal areas.
Cyclone Nisarga (2020): Cyclone Nisarga made landfall near Alibaug, south of Mumbai, in June 2020. While it primarily affected Mumbai and its surroundings, including parts of the Konkan region, it caused strong winds, heavy rainfall, and localized flooding.
These cyclonic events have varied impacts depending on their intensity, track, and proximity to the Konkan coast. They often result in heavy rainfall, strong winds, storm surges, and subsequent flooding, which can damage infrastructure, crops, and livelihoods in coastal and low-lying areas. Local authorities and communities in the Konkan region have been working on disaster preparedness and mitigation measures to minimize the impact of such natural disasters on the region’s residents and agricultural activities.
