[Updated] List of Cyclones that hit India from 2019 to 2024

Since 2019, India has experienced 27 cyclones, 23 of which caused minimal impact. Four were classified as severe, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure and livelihoods in the affected regions.

These cyclones can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, posing a threat to coastal communities and necessitating preparedness measures.

The most intense cyclone to hit India in the past 12 months was "Hamoon." It made landfall near Saiha on October 24, 2023, at 11:30 pm local time, with wind speeds reaching up to 137 km/h and a diameter of 44 kilometres.

According to the internationally recognised Saffir-Simpson scale, it was classified as a category 1 cyclone. Over the open sea, wind speeds peaked at 148 km/h.

Let’s take a closer look at the cyclones that have affected India in recent years and the actions taken to reduce their impact.

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List of Cyclones that hit India from 2019 to 2024

India’s cyclone season is closely tied to the summer monsoon, with the most intense storms typically forming in the pre-monsoon period (May to June) and the post-monsoon period (October to November).

Here's the list of the destructive cyclones that have hit India from 2019 till now. Some of the most notable cyclones include:

Source: Worlddata.info

Cyclone Fengal is a developing tropical weather system currently forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining East Equatorial Indian Ocean. 

As of November 26, 2024, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that this system has intensified from a low-pressure area into a depression and is expected to continue strengthening, potentially making landfall between Chennai and Puducherry within the next few days.

Formation and Development

• Origin: Cyclone Fengal originated from a cyclonic circulation that developed near the South Andaman Sea on November 21, 2024. It transitioned into a low-pressure area by November 23 and was classified as a depression by November 24.
• Naming: The name "Fengal" was suggested by Saudi Arabia as part of a naming convention established by a group of 13 countries for cyclones in the region.

Projected Path and Impact

• Movement: The cyclone is currently moving north-northwestwards, with predictions indicating it will approach the coasts of Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu. It is expected to make landfall between November 25 and 27, bringing significant weather impacts to these areas.
• Rainfall: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecasted for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with isolated areas potentially experiencing extremely heavy downpours. Rainfall amounts could reach between 64.5 mm to over 204.5 mm during this period.
• Wind Speeds: Sustained winds are anticipated to reach speeds of up to 65 km/h, with gusts potentially reaching 75 km/h, posing risks to coastal infrastructure and activities.

Safety Advisories

The IMD has advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea due to expected rough conditions. Additionally, urban flooding may occur in areas experiencing heavy rainfall, necessitating precautions for local residents.

Cyclone Fengal follows Cyclone Dana, which impacted Odisha on October 25, 2024. Unlike many cyclones that typically affect Andhra Pradesh or West Bengal during this season, Fengal's trajectory marks a shift towards southern India, specifically targeting Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

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What Is Cyclone Fengal?