Cyclone Dana Intensifies: West Bengal and Odisha Brace for Severe Storm, Heavy Rainfall Expected
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Wednesday, October 23, that Cyclone Dana is intensifying and is likely to develop into a severe cyclonic storm. The cyclone is expected to make landfall between West Bengal and Odisha late Thursday night or early Friday morning. With wind speeds anticipated to reach 100-110 km/h, and gusts of up to 120 km/h, authorities are preparing for significant weather disruptions, particularly along coastal areas.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast for Odisha
Cyclone Dana is predicted to bring widespread rainfall across Odisha on October 24 and 25. According to the IMD, light to moderate rain is expected in most areas, but some regions will experience extremely heavy rainfall, with over 21 cm of rain in isolated spots. Districts most at risk include Baleswar, Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsingpur, Kendujhar, Jajpur, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Khorda, and Puri. The heavy downpour may lead to localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas, so residents are being urged to remain cautious.
The state’s disaster management teams are on high alert, and authorities are closely monitoring river levels, as increased rainfall could cause rivers to overflow. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and local communities in coastal areas are being evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Preparedness in West Bengal
West Bengal is also bracing for significant weather impacts from Cyclone Dana. Heavy rain is expected across several districts, including South and North 24 Parganas, East and West Medinipur, Jhargram, Howrah, Hooghly, Kolkata, and Bankura. Residents in these areas have been warned about the possibility of strong winds and heavy downpours, which could disrupt daily life, cause road blockages, and damage infrastructure.
The local government has issued travel advisories, urging people to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm’s peak hours. Schools in vulnerable districts have been temporarily closed, and officials are working around the clock to prepare for the cyclone’s arrival.
Evacuation and Relief Efforts Underway
In preparation for Cyclone Dana, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has airlifted a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team of 150 personnel to Bhubaneswar, Odisha, along with essential relief materials. One IL-76 and an AN-32 aircraft were deployed from Bathinda, Punjab, and landed early Wednesday morning in Odisha to ensure timely mobilization of resources.
Local authorities have been proactive in organizing evacuations, especially in coastal areas prone to storm surges. In Puri, for instance, fishing communities have started moving inland, and boats have been pulled ashore to prevent damage from the expected high waves. The state governments of both Odisha and West Bengal have asked residents to remain indoors during the cyclone’s passage and to follow updates from official sources.
Cyclone Dana, a tropical cyclone, falls under the classification of tropical storms, which generally form in the warmer waters of the Bay of Bengal. The IMD and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have categorized the cyclone as “severe,” predicting that it will bring both destructive winds and heavy rainfall. Cyclones in the region are typically classified into extratropical and tropical cyclones, with the latter having a more pronounced impact on coastal areas due to their intensity and proximity to the shore.
As of the latest reports, Cyclone Dana was moving at a speed of 18 km/h over the east-central Bay of Bengal. It is forecasted to intensify further as it approaches the coast, moving northwestwards. The IMD predicts the cyclone will cross the coasts of North Odisha and West Bengal between October 24 and 25.
Precautionary Measures and Public Advisory
Authorities in both Odisha and West Bengal have issued a public advisory, urging people to stock up on essential supplies and to stay indoors as much as possible during the cyclone’s landfall. The IMD has also asked people to avoid coastal areas and follow instructions from local officials.
Given the potential for heavy rainfall, the risk of landslides and flash floods in hilly regions and low-lying areas remains high. The government is coordinating with disaster management teams to ensure that rescue operations are in place and that emergency services can be mobilized if needed.
The next few days will be critical as Cyclone Dana moves closer to the mainland. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed and heed official warnings for their safety.
