Cyclone Dana Nears Landfall: Heavy Rain and Strong Winds to Impact Coastal Regions of Odisha and West Bengal

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 24, 2024, Kolkata: Cyclone Dana, a powerful storm named by Qatar, is rapidly advancing towards the Odisha and West Bengal coastlines, with landfall expected to begin between Paradwip and Damra in Odisha later today. 

The cyclone is currently 255 km from Paradwip and 410 km from Sagardwip, moving northwest at a speed of 15 km per hour. Wind speeds are currently at 100 km per hour and are expected to intensify to 100-110 km per hour upon landfall.

The landfall process is likely to commence on Thursday, with the cyclone projected to weaken into a deep depression after it settles over land. Nevertheless, the coastal regions of Odisha and Bengal, especially the Sundarbans and districts like East and West Midnapore, will face heavy to very heavy rainfall along with strong winds. The storm's impact on interior regions is expected to be less severe.

Areas Expected to Face Maximum Impact:

• Puri: Heavy rain until noon on October 24, with wind speeds reaching 60-70 kmph.
• Paradip: Heavy to very heavy rainfall until noon on October 25, with wind speeds peaking at 90-100 kmph.
• Damra: Heavy to very heavy rain until noon on October 25, with winds possibly reaching 100-110 kmph.
• Chandipur: Similar to Damra, heavy to very heavy rainfall will continue until the night of October 25, with wind speeds between 100-110 kmph.
• Digha: Heavy rain is expected until the night of October 25, with wind speeds between 80-90 kmph.
• Sagardeep: Very heavy rain is predicted until the morning of October 26, with winds reaching 70-80 kmph.
• Gangetic West Bengal (including Kolkata): Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in scattered areas until the morning of October 26, with wind speeds of 40-50 kmph.

As of now, the cyclone’s landfall process between Paradwip and Rajnagar is nearing completion, with current wind speeds recorded at 85-90 kmph. Scattered light rainfall and winds of 30-40 kmph are expected to continue across several districts in South Bengal.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation, and any changes in predictions will be promptly updated. Residents in affected areas are urged to remain calm, stay informed, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety. Public awareness efforts are in full swing to prevent panic and ensure everyone is prepared.

Stay connected with local authorities for further updates, and remain cautious as Cyclone Dana continues its course.