is predict to bring winds up to 120 km/h and heavy rainfall across parts of Odisha and West Bengal over the next three days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The IMD has place several districts on high alert, anticipating severe weather conditions as the storm approaches. As the situation unfolds, here’s what you need to know:
1. Early Impact in Odisha
On Wednesday, rain and adverse weather conditions were already felt in parts of Kendrapara and Bhadrak districts as the outer bands of Cyclone Dana began reaching the coast. With wind speeds expect to intensify, Odisha is bracing for impact, especially in coastal regions. The cyclone is expect to bring significant rainfall,
affecting districts across Odisha and south Bengal.
2. Rail Services Suspended
Due to the approaching cyclone, the Eastern Railway has suspended local train services from Sealdah station starting Thursday evening until Friday morning. This move impacts passengers in key districts including North and South 24 Parganas, Nadia, Murshidabad, Kolkata, and Howrah. Additionally,
over 150 express and passenger trains in the South Eastern Railway region and 198 trains in the East Coast Railways have cancele due to the storm.
3. Government and NDRF on High Alert
Odisha’s deputy chief minister KV Singh Deo announced that multiple state departments are on high alert, with focused preparations to mitigate the storm’s impact. The Odisha government has issued warnings to fishermen to avoid Chilika Lake until October 26 and accelerated evacuations from vulnerable coastal regions. Meanwhile,
West Bengal’s chief minister Mamata Banerjee assure that her state is well-prepare,
with schools in seven districts close as a precaution.
4. Rescue Operations Mobilized
Odisha has deployed 288 rescue teams to vulnerable areas across 14 districts, including 19 NDRF teams, 51 ODRAF teams, and 178 Fire Services teams. Additional support is being sent to areas expect to be hard hit. The Indian Air Force airlifted 150 NDRF personnel to Bhubaneswar on Wednesday to assist with relief efforts.
5. IMD Forecast and Landfall Prediction
According to IMD Senior Scientist Umashankar Das, Cyclone Dana intensified into a cyclonic storm early Wednesday and is moving northwest at 15 km/h. It is expect to strengthen further into a severe cyclone by October 24. Landfall is predict between midnight on October 24 and early morning on October 25, with wind speeds ranging from 100 to 110 km/h, gusting up to 220 km/h. A red alert has issue for these dates, with rainfall expect between 7 to 20 cm.
6. Potential Impact on Bhitarkanika National Park
The Bhitarkanika National Park, which has a large mangrove forest, could play a crucial role in mitigating the storm’s effects if Cyclone Dana makes landfall nearby. The dense mangroves are known to absorb the impact of cyclones and protect the inland areas from severe damage.
7. Indian Coast Guard on High Alert
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has mobilized vessels and aircraft to respond swiftly to any emergencies in the Bay of Bengal. The ICG is strategically position to ensure a quick response to any contingencies that may arise as Cyclone Dana approaches landfall.
Key Actions Taken by Authorities
- Evacuations are underway in coastal areas, and disaster response teams are on standby.
- Schools in affected districts in both Odisha and West Bengal will remain closed until October 26.
- Fishermen have been warn to stay off the coast and avoid dangerous areas like Chilika Lake.
- The Odisha government has task Cabinet ministers with overseeing preparations in their respective districts to ensure smooth coordination during the crisis.
Read More: Amazon Diwali Sale: Grab the Best Dhanteras Deals in the Great Indian Festival- Click Here
Conclusion
As Cyclone Dana approaches, both Odisha and West Bengal are preparing for a severe storm with the potential to cause widespread disruption. The coordinat efforts of state governments,
disaster response teams, and national agencies, including the Indian Air Force and Coast Guard,
are focuse on minimizing the impact of this powerful storm. Residents in vulnerable areas are advise to stay inform and follow safety guidelines to protect themselves during this critical time.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
