Local-level impacts of Cyclone Yaas on the Islands of the Indian Sundarbans Delta

The low-lying islands of the Indian Sundarbans Delta (ISD) contain a unique ecosystem with rich biodiversity, which are at the forefront of the impacts of climate change and natural disasters, such as cyclones. Therefore, in this study, we have analyzed the impact of Cyclone Yaas at the local level in the ISD. We utilized various indices derived from MODIS satellite images to analyze the local-level impacts. The results of our study revealed widespread impacts from high storm surges of 9–16 feet. In general, the daytime land surface temperatures (LSTs) were higher before compared to during the storm, due to lower insolation associated with cloudy skies. However, higher values were observed during the storm for nighttime LSTs and the vegetation indices. More specifically, at the local level, the differences were more pronounced in the vegetated and low-lying coastal areas of the islands. The results of the image analyses were also corroborated with field observations in some of the islands, which showed saltwater encroachment in agricultural lands, collapsed embankments built for protection against storm surge, and food insecurity. The results of our study highlighted the vulnerability of these islands to extreme weather events, and long-lasting impacts on the local communities.