Cyclone Dana Set to Hit Odisha and West Bengal on October 24, 2024

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning regarding a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, predicting it will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by October 23. The storm is expected to make landfall along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal on October 24. It is likely that Cyclone Dana will bring heavy rains in both states for at least three days.

Formation

• The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is expected to evolve into a severe cyclonic storm, named Cyclone Dana, by October 23.

Landfall Predictions

• Cyclone Dana is projected to reach the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal on October 24, bringing significant weather changes.

Wind Speed

• Initial wind speeds of 60 kmph are expected along the Odisha-West Bengal coasts starting Wednesday, which could increase to 100-110 kmph, with gusts up to 120 kmph, from the night of October 24 to the morning of October 25.

Fishermen Advisory 

• Fishermen in coastal regions have been warned against venturing into the sea this week due to the impending storm conditions.

Alerts Issued

• A red alert has been declared for the districts of Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Jagatsinghpur in Odisha for October 24, indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall and lightning.

Educational Institutions Closure

• The Odisha state government has mandated the closure of schools and colleges in 14 districts from October 23 to 25, including Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Angul, Khordha, Nayagarh, and Cuttack.

West Bengal Rainfall Forecast

• Heavy rains are also predicted in coastal districts of West Bengal on October 23, particularly in Purba and Paschim Medinipur and North and South 24 Parganas.

Public Preparedness

• Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay vigilant and prepare for severe weather conditions as the cyclone approaches.