Cyclone Dana to Hit Odisha and West Bengal, IMD Issues Warnings
Cyclone Dana to Hit Odisha and West Bengal, IMD Issues Warnings
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal will intensify into Cyclone Dana by October 23. The cyclone is expected to turn into a severe cyclonic storm by October 24 and reach the Odisha and West Bengal coasts, bringing heavy rains for at least three days.
IMD has forecast wind speeds reaching 60 kmph along the Odisha-West Bengal coastline from Wednesday, increasing to 100-110 kmph, with gusts up to 120 kmph, by the night of October 24. Fishermen in the region have been warned not to venture into the sea.
A red alert has been issued for Odisha’s Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Jagatsinghpur districts on October 24, with heavy rainfall and lightning expected. In response, the Odisha government has ordered the closure of schools and colleges in 14 districts from October 23 to 25, including Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, and Mayurbhanj.
West Bengal’s coastal districts of Purba and Paschim Medinipur, and North and South 24 Parganas, will also experience heavy rain starting October 23.
Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, announced that state departments are on high alert. Energy, agriculture, and revenue departments have been mobilized, and officials’ leaves have been canceled to ensure preparedness.
State Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari urged tourists in Puri to evacuate promptly for their safety. The advisory came after a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Majhi on Monday.
With Cyclone Dana expected to hit this week, both states are preparing for its potential impact, ensuring public safety and essential services remain active.
