Impending Fury: Cyclone Dana Set to Strike Odisha-West Bengal Coast with Devastating Force

Cyclone Dana, a formidable deep depression that formed over the Bay of Bengal, has now escalated into a menacing severe cyclonic storm, barreling toward the Odisha-West Bengal coastline. The tempest is predicted to make a ferocious landfall between the renowned Bhitarkanika National Park and the strategic Dhamra Port in Odisha on October 25, with wind speeds forecasted to rage between 100-120 mph. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an urgent red alert for several districts in both states, warning of torrential rainfall, fierce gusts, and potential flooding.

In preparation for the cyclone's onslaught, government authorities in Odisha and West Bengal have undertaken massive evacuation efforts, relocating nearly 10 lakh people from the vulnerable coastal zones. Numerous multipurpose cyclone shelters have been identified and readied, equipped with essential resources like food, potable water, electricity, sanitation, and emergency health services. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari assured that every precaution is being taken to safeguard the population. The evacuation is complemented by the shutdown of schools, the suspension of train and flight services, and heightened vigilance across all relevant sectors.

Odisha's districts, including Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, and Balasore, are positioned directly in the cyclone's likely path, facing extreme danger. Meanwhile, in West Bengal, regions like South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, and Purba Medinipur are bracing for the cyclone's wrath. Coastal areas, as well as neighboring districts such as Bankura, Jhargram, and Hooghly, are also on high alert. The Indian Coast Guard, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and other key emergency services are on standby, prepared to initiate large-scale rescue and relief operations as Cyclone Dana draws nearer, threatening widespread devastation.