Cyclone Dana is set to make landfall in Odisha and West Bengal within the next 48 hours, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts significant developments in the coming days. The cyclone is expected to bring extremely heavy rainfall and high winds, prompting authorities to take extensive precautionary measures.
Current Status
Cyclone Dana began as a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, which intensified into a depression early Tuesday morning. The IMD has placed its location approximately 730 km from Paradip in Odisha and 740 km from Sagar Island in West Bengal. The depression is projected to evolve into a severe cyclonic storm by Wednesday, with landfall anticipated by Thursday night (October 24) or early Friday (October 25) in Odisha’s Puri and West Bengal’s Sagar Island.
Expected Impact
- Rainfall: Both Odisha and West Bengal are bracing for heavy rainfall on October 24 and 25. The downpours are expected to continue through Friday, with areas forecast to experience extremely heavy rainfall, raising concerns about flooding and waterlogging.
- Wind Speeds: High-speed winds are also predicted, with speeds expected to intensify as the cyclone approaches land. The storm could disrupt transportation systems, particularly road and rail services, and damage infrastructure.
Preparedness Measures
Authorities in both states are ramping up preparedness efforts to minimize the impact of Cyclone Dana.
- Evacuations: Evacuations in vulnerable regions have already begun, with efforts underway to ensure the safety of residents in low-lying coastal areas.
- Shelters: Around 800 cyclone shelters have been established in Odisha, with disaster management teams on high alert. The Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has deployed 20 teams across affected regions to assist with preparedness operations and evacuations.
Authorities’ Response
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra emphasized that Odisha is likely to face the worst of the storm’s impact. State authorities are on high alert, closely monitoring the situation, and have initiated preparations to manage potential disruptions to roads, railways, and other essential services.
As Cyclone Dana inches closer to land, residents in affected areas are urged to stay updated via official government channels and to follow safety protocols issued by local authorities to ensure their safety.
