Cyclone DANA to Hit Odisha Coast Near Dhamra Port

A severe cyclonic storm, named Cyclone Dana, is set to make landfall near the Odisha coast, specifically around Baleshwar and Dhamra Port, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system, which is currently a depression over the east-central Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify into a severe cyclone by October 23, 2024. As it moves toward the north Odisha and West Bengal coasts, landfall is likely between the night of October 24 and the early hours of October 25. With predicted wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, gusting up to 120 kmph, this cyclone poses a significant threat to both coastal regions, particularly in terms of wind damage, storm surges, and heavy rainfall.

Cyclone Dana to Hit Odisha Coast Near Dhamra Port

As the IMD reported, Cyclone Dana is expected to make landfall close to Dhamra Port, which is situated near Baleshwar on the Odisha coast. The cyclone’s trajectory will then take a slight turn toward Odisha, bringing intense rainfall and strong winds. Odisha’s coastal regions, especially Baleshwar, are bracing for impact, with local authorities already preparing for disaster management and relief operations. The cyclone will primarily affect Odisha, but its influence will extend to West Bengal, particularly along its coast.

According to Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the Director-General of the IMD, “Cyclone Dana will spare most of West Bengal, but some coastal districts will still face severe impacts due to the storm’s trajectory.” In particular, Purba Medinipur and South 24 Parganas are expected to bear the brunt of the cyclone, as these areas will fall on the right side of its path, where cyclonic storms usually exert their strongest force. This region is predicted to experience high winds, torrential rain, and potential flooding.

Severe Cyclone Dana to Partially Spare West Bengal

While Odisha is expected to endure the most significant impacts, Cyclone Dana will also affect West Bengal, though to a lesser extent. The IMD has forecast that districts such as Purba Medinipur, South 24 Parganas, and parts of Kolkata will experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by wind speeds of 50-60 kmph. In areas closest to the coast, wind speeds could reach 100-110 kmph at the peak of the storm.

As the cyclone moves inland, it is expected to weaken gradually, but it will still bring intense rain and wind to districts further inland, including Hooghly, Howrah, and Bankura. The potential for flooding, waterlogging, and damage to infrastructure remains high, especially in low-lying areas prone to inundation.

IMD Issues Warnings for Coastal Odisha and West Bengal

The IMD has issued several advisories in anticipation of Cyclone Dana. Fishermen have been warned not to venture out to sea from the evening of October 23 through the morning of October 25, as sea conditions are expected to be extremely rough to very rough. Winds are forecast to pick up to 60-70 kmph by the morning of October 24, gradually increasing to 100-110 kmph as the cyclone nears landfall. Coastal regions of Odisha and West Bengal should brace for storm surges and high tides, which could lead to severe coastal flooding.

Message issued by IMD: https://mausam.imd.gov.in/Forecast/marquee_data/1.Special%20Message%20No%201-20Oct2024_0830IST.pdf

Heavy rains are also expected to lash both states, with cumulative rainfall amounts ranging from 7 cm to 20 cm in the affected areas. The IMD has highlighted the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall in parts of West Bengal, particularly in South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, and Paschim Medinipur on October 24 and 25.

The Chief Secretary of West Bengal has already held high-level meetings with disaster management teams to prepare for the cyclone’s arrival. Emergency services have been put on high alert, and evacuation plans are being drawn up for vulnerable coastal populations. Odisha’s government is also stepping up its preparedness efforts, especially in Dhamra Port and Baleshwar, where the cyclone’s effects are expected to be the most severe.

Cyclone Dana to Affect Kolkata

Though Kolkata lies about 250 km away from the expected landfall site, the city will still experience the outer bands of the cyclone, bringing strong winds of 50-60 kmph and heavy rainfall. The worst weather is expected during the night of October 24 and into the morning of October 25, with officials warning of possible urban flooding in low-lying areas of the city.

Despite Kolkata not being in the direct path of the cyclone, its size and strength mean that parts of the city could still see disruptions in power supply, transportation, and daily life due to fallen trees, damaged infrastructure, and waterlogging. The authorities have urged residents to take necessary precautions, especially during the storm’s peak hours.

Cyclone Dana’s Expected Path and Wind Speeds

The IMD’s track forecast suggests that Cyclone Dana will follow a path over the northwest Bay of Bengal before making landfall near Dhamra Port. At landfall, the storm is expected to have wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, with gusts up to 120 kmph. This makes it a significant weather event, capable of causing widespread damage to homes, trees, power lines, and crops.

IMD bulletins indicate that areas to the right of the cyclone’s track — including parts of West Bengal — will experience the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall. However, the storm’s impact could shift slightly depending on changes in the cyclone’s track as it nears land.

Sundarbans May Be at Risk

There is concern that the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a region vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels, could be affected by Cyclone Dana. As with most cyclones, the most severe impacts are expected on the right side of the storm’s track, which could place the Sundarbans at risk of high winds, storm surges, and flooding. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to assess the potential threat to this ecologically sensitive area.

The IMD has advised residents in the Sundarbans and surrounding coastal areas to be on high alert, and evacuation plans are in place for those living in particularly vulnerable regions. The cyclone’s potential to cause widespread damage has prompted disaster management teams to prepare for the worst-case scenario, with relief and rescue operations standing by.

Fishermen and Coastal Communities Warned

With sea conditions expected to worsen significantly from October 23 onwards, the IMD has issued a strong advisory to fishermen and coastal communities to avoid going out to sea until the cyclone passes. The sea will be very rough to high between October 24 and 25, creating dangerous conditions for fishing vessels and other marine activities.

Local governments in both Odisha and West Bengal are urging coastal residents to seek shelter and avoid traveling near beaches, harbors, and ports during this period. Emergency shelters are being prepared, and coastal evacuation plans are being executed in vulnerable areas to minimize the risk to human lives.

Prepare for Cyclone Dana’s Impact

As Cyclone Dana approaches the Odisha and West Bengal coasts, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and take all necessary precautions. The cyclone is expected to bring severe weather, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. With the potential for flooding, damage to property, and disruptions to daily life, being prepared is essential.

Both Odisha and West Bengal governments are working around the clock to ensure that emergency measures are in place ahead of the cyclone’s landfall. Residents of coastal districts, particularly those in Dhamra Port, Baleshwar, Purba Medinipur, and South 24 Parganas, should remain vigilant and heed the warnings issued by the IMD.