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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning regarding a severe cyclonic storm that is expected to make landfall between Puri in Odisha and Sagar Island in West Bengal. The storm is currently a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal and is projected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 23, 2024.
The IMD has predicted that the storm will cross the coast during the night of October 24 and early morning October 25, bringing with it wind speeds of 100-110 kmph with gusts reaching 120 kmph. This storm is expected to have a significant impact on both Odisha and West Bengal, with heavy to very heavy rainfall anticipated, particularly in Odisha.
In preparation for the storm, the Odisha government has placed district collectors of coastal areas on high alert and directed them to take necessary measures, including evacuating people from vulnerable locations. Fishermen have also been advised to return to shore by October 21 evening and remain ashore until October 26.
The IMD has issued a red warning for isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall, potentially exceeding 20 cm, and thunderstorms with lightning in Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Jagatsinghpur districts of Odisha on October 24. An orange warning has been issued for similar conditions in Kendrapada, Cuttack, Nayagarh, Kandhamal, and Gajapati districts.
Yellow warnings for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms have also been issued for Bhadrak, Balasore, Jajpur, Angul, Dhenkanal, Boudh, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar districts. The IMD has predicted that squally winds will begin in the northwest Bay of Bengal and off the Odisha coast by October 23 evening, gradually increasing to gale force winds by October 24 night, reaching 100-110 kmph with gusts up to 120 kmph until October 25 morning.
The severity of the cyclonic storm highlights the importance of preparedness and swift action by both government agencies and individuals in affected areas. It serves as a reminder of the potential impact of natural disasters and the need for continuous vigilance in the face of such threats.
Source: Severe cyclonic storm to cross between Puri and Sagar island, says IMD