IN PHOTOS: Cyclone Dana to make landfall in Odisha and West Bengal; evacuations underway

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that Cyclone Dana has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and is currently moving northwestward over the Bay of Bengal. It is expected to make landfall between Odisha and West Bengal on October 24-25. Pics/ PTI

Updated On: 2024-10-24 02:22 PM IST

Compiled by : Sanjana Deshpande

IMD reports that Cyclone Dana has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and is currently moving northwestward over the Bay of Bengal

According to IMD Director Manorama Mohanty, Cyclone Dana will make landfall with wind speeds of 100-110 kilometres per hour. Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Odisha, particularly in Bhubaneswar, as the storm approaches.

Local authorities in Odisha have begun evacuating people from vulnerable coastal areas, such as Dhamra and Bhadrak. Evacuated residents are being taken to cyclone shelters for safety ahead of the storm.

The Odisha government has imposed a fishing ban in Bhadrak until October 26 to prevent fishing activities in the storm-prone area. Registered boats and fishing fleets have been secured to avoid damage.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has stated that the state is fully prepared for Cyclone Dana. Emergency arrangements are in place for districts likely to be affected, including Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri.

West Bengal authorities have placed teams on high alert, and the state's governor, CV Ananda Bose, has expressed support for those potentially affected. Kolkata's airport will suspend flight operations for 15 hours as a precautionary measure.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams in both Odisha and West Bengal have been placed on standby to assist in rescue and relief operations if needed.

The Indian Navy has activated disaster response mechanisms, mobilising rescue teams and relief supplies. Navy ships equipped with essential materials are on standby for any relief efforts in affected areas.

Along with the Navy, the Coast Guard and Army are also on high alert to assist in evacuation, rescue, and relief operations if required during and after the cyclone.

Cyclone Dana is currently located 240 kilometres south of Odisha and 310 kilometres south of West Bengal, moving at a speed of 12 kilometres per hour towards the coastline.

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