Cyclone Dana: October 23, 2024 Update

Mootv Odisha / Bhubaneswar : Cyclone Dana, a powerful storm that has developed over the Bay of Bengal, is intensifying and is expected to make landfall between October 24 and 26. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy rainfall and strong winds for parts of Odisha and West Bengal. The cyclone is expected to hit the coast with wind speeds ranging from 100-120 km/h, with gusts up to 130-150 km/h, particularly affecting areas between Puri (Odisha) and Sagar Island (West Bengal)​

Key Developments:

• Landfall Forecast: The cyclone is likely to strike between Puri, Odisha, and Sagar Island, West Bengal, bringing heavy rainfall of 20-30 cm to some area.

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• Evacuations Underway: Authorities are executing mass evacuations in high-risk coastal zones. People are being relocated to safe shelters to mitigate the risk of flooding and wi

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• Train Cancellations: Over 150 trains in the affected regions have been canceled to ensure safety​

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• School Closures: Schools in several coastal districts of Odisha and West Bengal have been closed from October 23 to 26​

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Residents are urged to follow official weather alerts and take necessary precautions as Cyclone Dana continues to approach the Indian coastline.

Preparing for Cyclone Dana in Odisha requires taking several important steps to ensure safety and minimize damage. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Evacuation Plans

• Follow Official Orders: Pay close attention to evacuation orders issued by local authorities. If you live in a coastal or flood-prone area, be ready to move to designated cyclone shelters.
• Know Your Safe Zones: Identify the nearest shelter and have a clear route to reach there. Make sure family members know the plan.

2. Emergency Kit Preparation

• Essentials: Pack an emergency kit with bottled water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and necessary medications.
• Important Documents: Secure important documents (ID, property papers, insurance documents) in waterproof bags.

3. Home Safety

• Secure Windows and Doors: Use storm shutters or plywood to protect windows. Make sure doors are strong enough to withstand high winds.
• Remove Loose Objects: Secure outdoor items like furniture, potted plants, or anything that can become a projectile during the storm.
• Trim Trees: If you have trees around your home, trim branches that could cause damage during strong winds.

4. Stay Informed

• Weather Alerts: Monitor updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) via TV, radio, or official apps. Timely information about Cyclone Dana’s trajectory and intensity is crucial​

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.5. Power and Communication

• Backup Power: Charge all mobile devices and consider a backup power source if possible. Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
• Emergency Communication: Plan how to stay in contact with family members, and inform someone outside the storm area of your safety plans.

6. Post-Cyclone Safety

• Avoid Floodwaters: After the cyclone, avoid walking or driving through flooded areas as water may be deeper and more dangerous than it appears.
• Electrical Safety: Be cautious of downed power lines and electrical wires, which could be live. Report them to authorities.

Odisha residents should act quickly and stay vigilant to protect themselves as Cyclone Dana approaches. Follow all government instructions closely to ensure safety.