October 24-25, 2024 – Cyclone Dana, a severe cyclonic storm, has made landfall along the eastern coast of India, impacting the states of Odisha and West Bengal. The cyclone, originating from a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal, reached maximum wind speeds of 110 kilometers per hour (km/h) during landfall, with gusts reaching up to 120 km/h. The storm hit the coastal areas late on the night of October 24, continuing into the early hours of October 25.

Cyclone Dana Makes Landfall in Odisha and West Bengal: Key Updates and Preparedness Measures

Heavy Rainfall, Strong Winds, and Evacuations

Cyclone Dana has brought torrential rains, high winds, and dangerous storm surges to the region. Districts such as Puri, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, and Balasore in Odisha and Purba Medinipur, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas in West Bengal were placed under red alert, with warnings of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Authorities in both states have been actively evacuating residents from low-lying and vulnerable coastal areas.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that the cyclone would intensify into a severe storm before making landfall between Puri in Odisha and Sagar Island in West Bengal. In response, the governments of Odisha and West Bengal swiftly implemented precautionary measures, including mass evacuations and the closure of schools in affected districts. In Odisha alone, over 800 multipurpose cyclone shelters were prepared to house evacuees, providing essential supplies such as food, water, and medical care.

Impact on Transportation and Services

The cyclone has caused significant disruptions to transportation and services. Over 300 trains, including prominent services like the Howrah-Bhubaneswar Shatabdi Express, were canceled as a precautionary measure. Both states have also halted fishing activities, with authorities advising fishermen to remain ashore due to treacherous sea conditions. As the cyclone approaches the inland areas, there are concerns about potential flooding and damage to infrastructure, particularly in areas with poor drainage systems.

Road transport has also been heavily affected, with many highways rendered impassable due to fallen trees and storm debris. Airports in the region are monitoring the situation closely, with flights delayed or rerouted to ensure passenger safety.

Disaster Response and Preparedness

In anticipation of the cyclone, both state and national disaster response forces have been deployed. In Odisha, 11 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and 9 teams in West Bengal have been positioned in vulnerable districts. These teams are equipped with essential tools for rescue operations, including boats, communication equipment, and first aid supplies. Additionally, the Coast Guard has been on high alert, coordinating with state governments to monitor offshore activities and provide support where necessary.

The Odisha government, aiming for a “zero casualty” outcome, has focused on evacuation and safety measures, recalling the state’s effective management during previous cyclones, including Cyclone Fani in 2019. Similarly, the West Bengal government has taken swift action to mitigate the cyclone’s impact, evacuating residents from the Sundarbans region, which is particularly prone to storm surges and tidal flooding.

Power and Infrastructure Concerns

Power supply disruptions are expected in affected areas, with authorities warning of potential outages due to strong winds and damaged infrastructure. Repair teams have been positioned to restore electricity services quickly, but authorities have urged residents to prepare for temporary blackouts. Telecommunications services are also likely to be affected, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure is vulnerable to wind damage.

Post-Landfall Outlook

The IMD forecasts that Cyclone Dana will weaken into a depression as it moves further inland, with continued heavy rainfall expected across parts of Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand over the next 24 hours. Riverine flooding remains a concern, especially in areas already saturated from seasonal monsoon rains.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have both assured citizens that their respective states are fully prepared to handle the aftermath of the storm. Relief centers are stocked with essential supplies, and state agencies are closely coordinating with national authorities to ensure a rapid response to any emergencies that may arise in the coming days.

Conclusion

Cyclone Dana’s impact has highlighted the vulnerability of India’s eastern coast to severe weather events. While the states of Odisha and West Bengal have taken commendable steps to mitigate the storm’s impact, long-term resilience planning, including infrastructure development and disaster preparedness, remains critical for future cyclones. The authorities’ quick response and efficient evacuation efforts have so far helped minimize casualties, with ongoing assessments to evaluate the full extent of the damage