Cyclone Dana hits the southeastern Indian coastlines with wind speed measuring 120 kmph approx., causing intense rainfall, strong winds, and precautionary evacuations across affected regions. The cyclone, which began making landfall late last night, has primarily impacted the coastal areas of Odisha and West Bengal, with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting the storm to intensify further.
Landfall and Immediate Impact
Cyclone Dana made landfall between 12:45 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., hitting coastal districts with powerful winds reaching speeds of approximately 120 kmph. Areas in Odisha, particularly the districts of Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Balasore, and Jagatsinghpur, experienced sudden gusts up to 110 kmph, heavy rainfall, and reports of uprooted trees, though no significant damage or casualties have been reported as of early updates. The IMD has advised that Cyclone Dana is expected to strengthen further, bringing ongoing heavy rains and high winds as it progresses inland.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for affected districts and has warned local authorities to prepare for possible flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Bhubaneswar and Kolkata have recorded consistent rainfall, with officials urging people to avoid non-essential travel.
Response from National and State Disaster Agencies
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 20 teams in Odisha and 17 teams in West Bengal, prioritizing evacuation and emergency response. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has mobilized vessels and aircraft, maintaining strategic positions across the Bay of Bengal to ensure swift response capabilities. Both agencies remain on high alert, coordinating closely with local governments to ensure efficient evacuation and rapid assistance to impacted communities.
In preparation for Cyclone Dana’s landfall, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) activated a control room to manage emergency operations. The KMC canceled leaves for essential personnel and ensured medical aid, water supplies, and other resources are ready for emergency distribution. Ferry services across River Hooghly and in the Sundarbans region have been suspended to minimize risks, with officials closely monitoring the storm’s progress.
Large-Scale Evacuations and Preventive Measures
Cyclone Dana’s arrival has triggered a major evacuation drive across southeastern coastal regions. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that over 3.5 lakh people from vulnerable, low-lying areas are on standby for evacuation, with 243,374 people already relocated to relief camps as of Thursday. Relief camps across Odisha and West Bengal have been set up, with food, shelter, and medical facilities prepared to accommodate evacuees.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and West Bengal’s Chief Minister have issued directives to local authorities, urging strict adherence to safety protocols, especially regarding travel restrictions and building inspections. Additionally, the Indian Railways has temporarily suspended services in affected areas, prioritizing safety over continued operations.
Central Government’s Involvement and Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a review of Cyclone Dana’s impact and preparedness, speaking with Chief Ministers of Odisha and West Bengal to confirm the availability of central support. The central government has assured full assistance to the states, promising emergency relief funds, and reinforcement resources as necessary. The Prime Minister’s Office has been actively monitoring the cyclone’s path, coordinating closely with both NDRF and state-level disaster management authorities.
NDRF Deputy Inspector General Mohsen Shahedi emphasized the urgency of staying prepared, as NDRF teams continue to monitor both storm developments and the situation in relief camps. State governments have also activated emergency response teams to address potential power outages and infrastructure damage.
Impact on Transportation and Infrastructure
With Cyclone Dana hitting southeastern Indian coastlines with wind speed measuring 120 kmph approx., transportation networks and basic services are under pressure. Kolkata’s ferry services, along with major roads and railway connections, have been temporarily halted, disrupting travel and causing delays. Local authorities have stationed emergency repair crews to handle potential infrastructure damage to roads, power lines, and communication networks.
Power outages have been reported in select districts due to the strong winds, with repair teams working to restore services as quickly as possible. Coastal fishing communities have been evacuated from high-risk zones, and advisories remain in place warning fishermen to avoid the sea until conditions improve.
Long-Term Outlook and Preparations for Additional Weather Events
As Cyclone Dana hits southeastern Indian coastlines with wind speed measuring 120 kmph approx., experts warn of potential long-term effects, including flooding, landslides, and road damage in affected regions. The IMD has forecast continued rainfall over the next 48 hours, particularly in Odisha and West Bengal’s coastal and riverine areas. Residents in these regions have been advised to remain indoors, and state governments are prepared to distribute essential supplies to isolated areas if required.
The cyclone’s impact highlights the importance of coordinated disaster management efforts in coastal India, where authorities continue refining their approach to cyclone preparedness. With changing climate patterns increasing the frequency of severe weather events, both state and central governments are expected to enhance long-term infrastructure and readiness strategies.
Conclusion
Cyclone Dana hits the southeastern Indian coastlines with wind speed measuring 120 kmph approx., leaving communities braced for ongoing challenges. As state and national authorities mobilize resources, evacuation and relief operations are underway to protect vulnerable populations. The coordinated efforts of the NDRF, state disaster teams, and local governments are critical as southeastern India faces the immediate and lasting impacts of this severe cyclone.
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