The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an urgent warning as Cyclone Dana approaches the eastern coasts of India. Expected to make landfall between October 24 and 25, this severe cyclonic storm is set to affect the states of Odisha and West Bengal with intense rainfall and strong winds, prompting local authorities to take precautionary measures.
Cyclone Dana Path and Intensity
According to the IMD, a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm, named Cyclone Dana, and is expected to hit the coastal regions of Odisha and West Bengal. The cyclone is likely to bring heavy rainfall and winds reaching speeds of 100-110 kilometres per hour (kmph), with gusts up to 120 kmph.
The cyclone is forecasted to cross the coast between Puri (Odisha) and Sagar Island (West Bengal) on the night of October 24 or early morning on October 25. Both states are gearing up for significant impacts, including flooding, infrastructural damage, and disruptions to daily life.
Rainfall and Wind Warnings
The IMD has issued several warnings regarding the expected conditions. Fishermen in both states have been advised not to venture into the sea due to rough weather conditions, and those already at sea are urged to return to the shore by October 23.
Odisha: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted for several districts from October 23 onwards, with the peak of the storm’s impact expected on October 24. The districts of Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Jagatsinghpur have been placed under a red alert, indicating rainfall of 7 to 20 cm, with isolated areas expected to receive over 20 cm of rain.
West Bengal: The coastal districts of Purba and Paschim Medinipur, and North and South 24 Parganas are also expected to experience heavy downpours starting from October 23, with the most intense rain forecasted for October 24-25.
The IMD also predicts that areas in Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, and Meghalaya will face heavy rainfall between October 23-25 as a result of Cyclone Dana.
Government Preparations in Odisha and West Bengal
In anticipation of Cyclone Dana’s arrival, both state governments have mobilised emergency response teams, evacuated vulnerable areas, and ensured essential services are ready for disruptions.
Odisha: Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo stated that multiple departments, including energy, agriculture, and revenue, are on high alert. Officials have been instructed to stay in constant communication, and their leaves have been cancelled. Relief materials are being distributed to affected districts, and the state’s disaster response teams have been stationed in key areas to provide immediate assistance.
West Bengal: Similarly, the West Bengal government has issued warnings to coastal districts and instructed officials to prepare for possible evacuations. Emergency services, including health and power restoration teams, are on standby.
School Closures and Evacuations
In light of the approaching cyclone, schools and colleges in the affected regions of Odisha will remain closed from October 23 to 25. Districts that have been affected include Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Angul, Khordha, Nayagarh, and Cuttack. Local authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
Evacuations have been ordered in low-lying and coastal areas, particularly in districts under red alert, to protect residents from potential flooding and storm surges.
Wind Speeds and Damage Potential
The IMD has warned of extremely high wind speeds along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal from October 24 night until October 25 morning. The wind speeds are expected to increase from 60 kmph to 100-110 kmph, with gusts reaching 120 kmph.
Such wind speeds pose a significant risk of damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and electrical lines. Coastal areas are also at risk of storm surges, which could lead to flooding in some regions.
Long-Term Weather Outlook
While Cyclone Dana is expected to weaken as it moves inland, the IMD predicts heavy rainfall will continue across the region until October 27. Additionally, the IMD has forecast heavy rains in Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, and Meghalaya from October 23-25, which could lead to localised flooding in these areas.
Further north, Delhi is expected to remain largely unaffected by the cyclone, with the city’s maximum temperatures hovering between 33-34°C and minimum temperatures ranging from 18-20°C during the week.
Conclusion
With Cyclone Dana rapidly approaching the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal, both states are on high alert for what could be a destructive weather event. Residents in affected areas are urged to follow official guidelines, evacuate if necessary, and prepare for power outages and potential flooding. Schools, businesses, and transport services are likely to be disrupted as authorities focus on minimising damage and loss of life.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds, and remember to stay safe by adhering to official warnings and precautions.
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