Cyclone Dana Updates: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the development of a severe cyclonic storm, Cyclone Dana, over the Bay of Bengal. The low-pressure system is expected to intensify by October 23, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to coastal regions of Odisha and West Bengal. According to the IMD, the cyclone is predicted to make landfall near the coasts of both states on October 24, and its impact could last until October 25.
Cyclone Dana to Bring Heavy Rains and High Winds
The IMD has warned that Cyclone Dana is likely to bring heavy rainfall to Odisha and West Bengal for at least three days, starting from October 23 until October 25.
Wind speeds are expected to reach 60 kmph along the coasts by Wednesday, gradually intensifying to between 100-110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph by the night of October 24.
A red alert has been issued for Odisha’s Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Jagatsinghpur districts on October 24, with warnings of heavy to very heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds. In response to the forecast, the Odisha government has ordered the closure of schools and colleges in 14 potentially affected districts from October 23 to October 25.
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These districts include Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Angul, Khordha, Nayagarh, and Cuttack.
West Bengal Coastal Districts on Rainfall Alert
IMD has also predicted heavy rainfall for West Bengal, particularly in the coastal districts of Purba and Paschim Medinipur, and North and South 24 Parganas, beginning on October 23. Residents are advised to take precautions and prepare for potential flooding and storm surges in low-lying areas.
Given the increasing severity of Cyclone Dana, the IMD has strongly advised fishermen along the Odisha and West Bengal coasts to avoid venturing into the sea until conditions improve. The storm is expected to cause rough seas and dangerously high waves, making it unsafe for marine activity.
