Cyclone Dana Brewing: Alert for Odisha and West Bengal Coasts
A deep depression over the Eastcentral Bay of Bengal is intensifying and may soon develop into Cyclone Dana, prompting a cyclone alert for the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal. As of 5:30 PM IST on October 22, 2024, the system was located approximately 690 km southeast of Paradip, Odisha, and is moving west-northwest at a speed of 7 km/h.
Meteorological predictions indicate that the depression is likely to strengthen into a cyclonic storm by October 23, 2024, and could escalate to a severe cyclonic storm by the morning of October 24. The storm is expected to make landfall between Puri and Sagar Island during the night of October 24 into the morning of October 25, with wind speeds anticipated to reach 100-110 km/h, gusting up to 120 km/h.
Rainfall and Wind Warnings
- Rainfall: Light to moderate rainfall is forecast across several regions, with heavy rain (7-11 cm) expected in isolated areas of Odisha, particularly in Balasore, Bhadrak, and Puri districts from October 23-25. West Bengal can also anticipate heavy rainfall, especially in South and North 24 Parganas.
- Wind: Squally winds are currently affecting the Eastcentral Bay of Bengal, with speeds expected to increase significantly by October 23. Fishermen are advised against venturing into affected waters during this period.
Expected Impact
The cyclone poses a risk of major damage to infrastructure in vulnerable districts, including:
- Damage to thatched roofs and the uprooting of trees.
- Disruption to power and communication lines.
- Flooding in low-lying areas, leading to road closures and localized landslides.
- Significant damage to crops, particularly bananas and papayas.
Safety Measures
Authorities recommend the following actions:
- Fishermen should halt all fishing activities from October 22-25.
- Residents in coastal hutments should relocate to safer areas.
- People in affected regions are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
