Cyclonic storm Dana takes shape over Bay of Bengal, IMD issues warning

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a tropical cyclone named 'Dana'. The cyclone is expected to make landfall between Puri in Odisha and Sagar Island in West Bengal on October 25, with wind speeds potentially reaching up to 120 km/h.

Cyclone path and warnings

According to the IMD, the deep depression, which had been moving west-northwest at 18 km/h, intensified into Cyclone Dana early Wednesday morning. The storm is projected to move northwest, strengthening further as it approaches the Odisha-West Bengal coastline. The cyclone is expected to hit between Puri and Sagar Island in the early hours of October 25, bringing strong winds and heavy rains.

As of 5:30 am on Wednesday, the cyclone was positioned 560 km southeast of Paradip, Odisha, and 630 km southeast of Sagar Island, West Bengal. The IMD has advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea from October 23 to 25 due to hazardous conditions, with winds expected to reach 60 km/h along the Odisha and West Bengal coasts.

Impact on railways

In anticipation of Cyclone Dana, the South Eastern Railway (SER) has cancelled over 150 express and passenger trains scheduled to depart between October 23 and 25. More cancellations may occur as the storm approaches and conditions worsen, especially affecting services in West Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand.

Emergency preparations

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is on high alert, deploying ships and aircraft to respond to any emergencies arising from the cyclone. Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has stationed 13 teams across South Bengal to assist with rescue and relief operations if necessary.

Heavy rainfall forecast

The IMD has predicted very heavy rainfall in South Bengal on October 24 and 25. Coastal districts like South 24 Parganas, West Medinipur, East Medinipur, and Jhargram are expected to experience the brunt of the rains. Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, Purulia, and Bankura are also likely to see significant rainfall during this period.