WB and Odisha on High Alert as Cyclone 'Dana' Approaches for Landfall Between Puri and Sagar Island

WB and Odisha on High Alert as Cyclone 'Dana' Approaches for Landfall Between Puri and Sagar Island

As the powerful tropical cyclone Dana heads toward the eastern coast of India, both West Bengal and Odisha are on high alert. Meteorologists have predicted that the cyclone will make landfall somewhere between Puri, Odisha, and Sagar Island, West Bengal, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and potential disruptions to daily life. The storm, classified as a severe cyclone, has prompted authorities in both states to initiate precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.

This article covers all the essential details about Cyclone Dana, including its expected trajectory, the impact on coastal regions, and the measures being taken by local authorities to ensure the safety of the population.

Key Details of Cyclone Dana’s Approach:

1. Cyclone 'Dana' on the Horizon: What We Know So Far:

• Cyclone Dana, a severe tropical storm, has been tracking through the Bay of Bengal and is now moving towards the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal. The cyclone has gained strength over the past 24 hours, and its intensity has raised concerns across the region.
• According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is expected to make landfall between Puri (in Odisha) and Sagar Island (in West Bengal) by the evening of October 21, 2024.
• Dana’s current wind speeds have reached up to 120-140 km/h, with gusts possibly exceeding 150 km/h, making it a severe storm that could cause extensive damage in coastal areas.

2. Precautionary Measures Issued by Authorities:

• In response to the impending threat, both West Bengal and Odisha have issued red alert warnings for the coastal regions. This alert indicates the potential for extreme weather conditions and underscores the need for residents to be vigilant.
• The Odisha State Government has mobilized National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, placing them in strategic locations in and around Puri and other coastal towns. Similarly, West Bengal has also deployed rescue teams to key coastal areas, including the Sundarbans and Sagar Island.
• Emergency shelters have been set up, and evacuation plans are in place to move people from high-risk areas. Residents in vulnerable regions have been advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

3. Expected Impact on Coastal Regions:

• Cyclone Dana is expected to bring heavy rainfall and high winds to areas between Puri and Sagar Island. The storm surge could lead to flooding, particularly in low-lying regions like the Sundarbans delta, where water levels may rise significantly.
• In addition to flooding, power outages and telecommunication disruptions are likely, as high winds could damage power lines and communication towers. Efforts are underway to ensure that power and water supply systems remain intact during the storm.
• Both states have also warned residents about the risk of landslides and mudslides in hilly regions if the heavy rains continue for an extended period.

4. Cyclone's Trajectory and Landfall Predictions:

• IMD has been tracking the cyclone closely and expects it to make landfall near the coastal regions of Puri and Sagar Island. The precise location of landfall remains uncertain, but it is likely to occur between these two areas, where the storm's force will be felt most intensely.
• After landfall, Cyclone Dana is expected to weaken but could still cause widespread damage in areas further inland as it moves across West Bengal and Bihar. The cyclone’s remnants may also bring rains and wind to states further north and northeast.

5. Challenges to the Region’s Safety and Preparedness:

• The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest delta regions in the world, faces particular risks from Cyclone Dana. This region is home to mangrove forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and numerous islands, and its population is vulnerable to both flooding and storm surges.
• Authorities are working to mitigate the risks, but challenges remain, particularly in remote areas where infrastructure may not be robust enough to withstand the full force of the cyclone. The storm could overwhelm drainage systems and cause localized flooding in both urban and rural areas.

6. Evacuation Plans and Community Safety:

• Local governments in West Bengal and Odisha are urging people living in coastal regions to evacuate and seek refuge in designated storm shelters. The authorities are focusing on ensuring that those in high-risk areas, such as Puri, Cuttack, and the Sundarbans, can move to safer locations quickly and without panic.
• Special arrangements have been made for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with disabilities, to ensure their safe relocation. Medical teams and emergency services are on standby to assist those who may need help during the evacuation process.

7. Lessons from Previous Cyclones:

• Cyclone Dana comes on the heels of previous storms that have impacted the region, such as Cyclone Fani in 2019, which caused widespread destruction in Odisha. Since then, Odisha has made significant strides in disaster preparedness, including improved early warning systems, cyclone shelters, and post-cyclone rehabilitation plans.
• However, the coastal regions of both West Bengal and Odisha remain highly susceptible to the impacts of tropical storms due to their geographical location. Continued preparedness and infrastructure improvements are crucial in minimizing the damage that such storms can cause.

8. Regional and National Response:

• The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is coordinating with the state governments to ensure a unified response to Cyclone Dana. Additional relief supplies, such as food, water, and medical aid, are being dispatched to the most affected areas.
• Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy personnel have also been deployed to assist with rescue and relief operations post-landfall. These teams are equipped to carry out aerial surveys, airlifting stranded individuals, and providing immediate medical care to affected communities.

Conclusion:

As Cyclone Dana continues its path towards the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal, the governments of both states have stepped up preparedness efforts to minimize damage and protect the residents. With landfall expected between Puri and Sagar Island, the region is bracing for a challenging few days of heavy rains, strong winds, and possible flooding.

Authorities are focused on evacuation, relief efforts, and infrastructure restoration to ensure that people in the affected areas remain safe. Meanwhile, residents are urged to follow safety guidelines, remain indoors, and stay updated on cyclone alerts. The combined efforts of the government, local agencies, and the community will be crucial in ensuring that the impact of Cyclone Dana is as limited as possible.