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Cyclone Dana, the first major storm of the cyclone season, is poised to make landfall in Odisha and West Bengal on October 24, bringing with it heavy rainfall and strong winds. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts, urging authorities and residents to prepare for the anticipated impacts. The storm's origins trace back to a low-pressure area that formed over the Bay of Bengal and North Andaman Sea, predicted to intensify into a depression by October 22 and a cyclonic storm by October 23.
Odisha and West Bengal have both activated their emergency plans, deploying National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, and mobilizing additional rescue and relief personnel from the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. Coastal villages are preparing cyclone shelters for residents with all necessary amenities, and evacuations from high-risk areas are underway. Authorities have advised residents and tourists to avoid seaside locations and fishermen to secure their vessels. In Odisha, schools in 14 districts will be closed from October 23 to October 25 as a precautionary measure.
The name "Dana" was contributed by Saudi Arabia, a member of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO)'s tropical cyclone naming system for the North Indian Ocean. In Arabic, "Dana" means "generosity" or "bounty." The WMO established this system to enhance awareness and foster cultural exchange among the countries affected by cyclones, while also improving communication and warning systems.
Source: Cyclone Dana: Odisha, West Bengal ready forces, other states on alert; all you need to know