CalaMiTy// Starting October 12, the strongest tropical cyclone of 2014 within the North Indian Ocean, and the most destructive tropical cyclone to ever hit India, Hudhud left behind a trail of devastation.

At least 96 deaths have been confirmed, a majority of them from Andhra Pradesh and Nepal, with the latter experiencing an avalanche due to the cyclone.

Hudhud caused extensive damage to the city of Visakhapatnam and the neighbouring districts of Vizianagaram and Srikakulam of Andhra Pradesh. Damages are estimated to be nearly ₹70,000 crore, with assessments still underway.

Images from INSAT-3D, which became operational in January this year, played an important role while tracking Cyclone Hudhud, which hit the east coast of India on October 12. It originated from a low pressure are over Tenasserim coast and adjoining North Andaman Sea on October 6. It concentrated into a depression over North Andaman Sea the next day morning, while moving north-westwards. On the same day the region and associated wind speed was about 25-30 knots. The wind speed was relatively higher in northern sector of the system.

According to satellite observation, intense to very intense convection was seen over Andaman Sea and adjoining area on October 7. It made landfall on the coast on October 12 inflicting maximum damage to Visakhapatnam district.