What was the impact of Cyclone Remal on Northeast India?

Cyclone Remal and the subsequent floods displaced approximately 2.5 million people in the state of Assam in 2024, accounting for nearly half of India's 5.4 million natural disaster-linked displacements that year.

How are vulnerable communities in India affected by climate change-driven migration?

People forced to move due to climate change often experience a drop in their health, income, stability, and agency, and are more vulnerable to exploitation as they migrate to new areas.

What is India's plan for addressing climate-related displacement?

India does not currently have a formal national climate resettlement policy for displaced people, and experts say more anticipatory and comprehensive approaches are needed to address this growing crisis.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Cyclone Remal Leaves 2.5 Million Displaced in Northeast India

Cyclone Remal Leaves 2.5 Million Displaced in Northeast India

8 Nov, 2025

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Summary

2.5 million people displaced by floods in Assam in 2024
Highest natural disaster-linked displacements in India in 12 years
Vulnerable communities struggle to adapt and recover

Cyclone Remal Leaves 2.5 Million Displaced in Northeast India

In the summer of 2024, Northeast India faced its most severe natural disaster in over a decade. Between May and July, Cyclone Remal struck the state of Assam, followed by two months of relentless downpours. The flooding that ensued devastated homes, crops, and critical infrastructure across 19 districts, many along the Brahmaputra River.

By July 2024, the disaster had displaced approximately 2.5 million people in Assam, accounting for nearly half of India's 5.4 million natural disaster-linked displacements that year - the highest number in 12 years. While the aim is to eventually return displaced populations to their homes, this is becoming increasingly difficult as the impacts of climate change continue to intensify.