Cyclone Dana Update: West Bengal and Odisha on High Alert as Cyclone Strengthens
October 2024, India: Cyclone Dana, emerging as a significant weather phenomenon, has already left a mark along India’s eastern coastline. Classified as a severe cyclonic storm, Dana is expected to make landfall between October 24-26, 2024, bringing fierce winds and torrential rains, particularly in West Bengal, Odisha, and Bangladesh. The cyclone, forming over the Bay of Bengal, is advancing steadily toward land, intensifying with each passing day.
Latest Updated
Cyclone Dana is expected to form over the East Central Bay of Bengal on Wednesday. Currently, it is categorized as a depression, but it is set to intensify while remaining at sea. By tomorrow, it is predicted to evolve into a cyclone, moving northwestwards towards the Northwest Coastline. This region includes the coastlines of Odisha and West Bengal, with landfall anticipated on the morning of October 24th, 2024.
As it nears the coast, particularly between Puri in Odisha and the southern parts of West Bengal, Cyclone Dana will further intensify. Wind speeds at landfall could reach 100-110 km/h, with gusts potentially reaching up to 120 km/h. The cyclone is likely to bring heavy rainfall, significantly affecting both West Bengal and Odisha. In light of this, the IMD (Indian Meteorological Department) has issued a Red Alert, warning residents of severe weather conditions.
Fishermen have been strongly advised to avoid venturing into the sea during this period. Landfall is expected between Paradeep (Odisha) and Sagar Island (West Bengal), with the exact trajectory becoming clearer once the storm fully transitions from a depression into a cyclone.
As a precautionary measure, authorities have closed schools in Odisha on October 24th and 25th. NDRF and SDRF teams have been deployed, and evacuation operations are underway in vulnerable areas. Both Odisha and West Bengal’s governments are closely monitoring the situation, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of West Bengal and Odisha’s Chief Minister ensuring all necessary preparations are in place.
Cyclone Dana is expected to make landfall between the night of October 24th and the early hours of October 25th, with the state authorities fully bracing for its impact.
Current Impact and Predictions:
As of now, both West Bengal and Odisha are bracing for the worst. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of wind speeds potentially exceeding 120 km/h, which will severely impact areas near Puri in Odisha and Sagar Island in West Bengal. Torrential rains are expected to continue over the next 48 hours, affecting day-to-day life, agriculture, and infrastructure. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to extreme conditions, and emergency preparedness is in full swing.
The storm’s trajectory suggests that low-lying areas will be particularly vulnerable to flooding, with major rivers likely to overflow. In Kolkata and other metropolitan regions, the civic bodies have begun draining operations and are ensuring that vulnerable structures are reinforced. This alert is especially high for coastal and riverine villages, where evacuations are being carried out on a large scale.
Government Measures:
State governments of Odisha and West Bengal have already initiated precautionary measures, including the closure of schools, colleges, and public offices in several districts. NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams have been deployed across both states, with disaster management units on standby for rescue and rehabilitation efforts. More than 150 trains along the cyclone’s projected path have been canceled to minimize any risks, while flights to and from Bhubaneswar and Kolkata are subject to delays or cancellations.
Evacuations and Rescue Operations:
Over 100,000 residents from vulnerable regions in coastal Odisha have been evacuated, while similar evacuations are underway in the Sunderbans and the coastal districts of West Bengal. Relief centers are operational with provisions for food, water, and medical assistance. Local authorities in both states have mobilized their disaster response systems, coordinating with the Central Government to ensure all regions are prepared.
In areas like Puri, Ganjam, Balasore, and Kendrapara in Odisha, local government shelters have been opened for those being evacuated, with similar measures underway in East Midnapore and South 24 Parganas in West Bengal.
Cyclone’s Effect on Southern India:
Southern states, including Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala, have been receiving heavy rainfall due to the cyclonic depression, which is expected to continue in the coming days. Flash floods and landslides remain a concern in these areas, as authorities closely monitor the situation.
What to Expect Next:
As Cyclone Dana strengthens, authorities are urging people in affected regions to stay indoors, follow official updates, and refrain from unnecessary travel. The IMD has predicted massive disruptions in power and communication lines, and it is essential that residents are prepared with emergency supplies. Experts also predict that the cyclone will continue to affect neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, which are on high alert as well.
Safety Tips:
•Stay indoors: Do not venture outside unless absolutely necessary.
•Evacuate if needed: Follow local authorities’ guidance for evacuation.
•Prepare emergency supplies: Stock up on essentials like drinking water, food, and medicines.
•Monitor official warnings: Stay updated with real-time weather information from the IMD and local news.
Final Thoughts:
Cyclone Dana is a reminder of the devastating power of nature and the importance of preparedness. With timely warnings and coordinated efforts from state authorities, the impact can be managed, but it is vital for residents to heed all safety measures.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.