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The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings about Cyclone Dana, a severe cyclonic storm forming in the Bay of Bengal. The storm is expected to make landfall on October 24, bringing heavy rainfall to Odisha and West Bengal. The IMD predicts wind speeds could reach 60 kilometers per hour (kmph) along the coasts and gradually increase to 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph, from October 24 night to October 25 morning. The agency has urged fishermen in coastal areas to refrain from venturing into the sea this week due to the potential dangers posed by the storm.
In Odisha, a red alert has been issued for the Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Jagatsinghpur districts for October 24, anticipating heavy to very heavy rainfall and lightning. As a precautionary measure, the state government has ordered the closure of schools and colleges in all 14 potentially affected districts from October 23 to 25. These districts include Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Angul, Khordha, Nayagarh, and Cuttack.
West Bengal is also bracing for heavy rains in its coastal districts on October 23, with the IMD issuing a rainfall alert for Purba and Paschim Medinipur and North and South 24 Parganas districts. The cyclone is expected to bring significant rainfall to both states, potentially causing disruptions and raising concerns about flooding. It is crucial for residents in these areas to stay informed about the latest updates and follow the advice of authorities to ensure their safety during this weather event.
Source: Cyclone Dana live updates: Cyclonic storm to cross Odisha, West Bengal on Oct 24