The Bhola cyclone, which approached East Pakistan in November, was a powerful tropical storm that gained intensity before making landfall. Winds reached up to 115 miles per hour, and a storm surge inundated coastal areas. The cyclone hit on the night of November 11-12, 1970, primarily affecting the islands and coastal regions of the country with extensive flooding and destruction. The cyclone's impact was particularly severe in the area around the town of Bhola, hence its name. Overcrowded living conditions and poor infrastructure exacerbated the situation, leading to a catastrophic loss of life. Estimates suggest that between 300,000 to 500,000 people perished, making it one of the deadliest cyclones recorded in history.

In addition to immediate fatalities, the Bhola cyclone caused significant long-term socioeconomic disruption. Many areas were left stranded and without basic supplies for weeks. Relief efforts were hampered by logistical challenges, with the government's response criticized for being slow and inadequate. The aftermath saw a rise in political tensions within Pakistan, particularly between East and West Pakistan, as the East felt neglected in terms of help and recovery efforts.

In the broader context of South Asian climate patterns, the cyclone underscored the region's vulnerability to natural disasters and the need for better forecasting and preparedness strategies. It served as a grim reminder of the importance of effective disaster management systems, leading to changes in policies regarding cyclone warning systems and disaster response.