1970 Bhola cyclone

The Bhola cyclone struck the Ganges delta in what was then East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, and the Indian state of West Bengal, bringing a storm surge several meters high that swept over low-lying islands and coastal districts. It is regarded as the deadliest tropical cyclone ever recorded, with an estimated death toll of between 300,000 and 500,000 people. It is named after Bhola Island, one of the worst affected places. The central government in West Pakistan was widely criticized for a slow and inadequate relief effort, which deepened Bengali resentment. The Awami League won a majority in the elections held weeks later, and the political crisis led to the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The disaster also led to the creation of cyclone shelters and warning programs that later saved many lives.

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