Cyclone Dana: Trains Cancelled as Odisha, Bengal Brace for Landfall on October 25 with Wind Speeds of 120 kmph | 10 Key Updates

Odisha & West Bengal, October 23, 2024 – Cyclone Dana, a severe cyclonic storm forming in the Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall on October 25, affecting large parts of coastal Odisha and West Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy rainfall and high winds, with speeds up to 120 kmph. Local authorities are on high alert, with several precautionary measures being implemented.

Here are the top 10 updates on Cyclone Dana:

1. Trains Cancelled: The Indian Railways has announced the cancellation of several long-distance and local trains passing through Odisha and West Bengal on October 24 and 25 as a safety measure. A list of affected routes has been made available, and passengers are being informed via SMS and station announcements.
2. Cyclone’s Path and Intensity: As of the latest IMD report, Cyclone Dana is intensifying over the Bay of Bengal and is predicted to make landfall near the Odisha-West Bengal coast on the morning of October 25. Wind speeds are expected to peak at 120 kmph, accompanied by heavy rainfall.
3. Evacuations Underway: Both Odisha and West Bengal governments have begun evacuating residents from low-lying coastal areas. In Odisha, districts like Ganjam, Kendrapara, and Balasore are on high alert, while in West Bengal, Digha, Sunderbans, and South 24 Parganas are bracing for impact.
4. Schools and Offices Closed: Both state governments have declared the closure of schools, colleges, and offices in affected regions on October 24 and 25. Essential services, however, will remain operational to aid in relief efforts.
5. Fishermen Advised to Return: Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and those already out have been asked to return to shore immediately. The seas are expected to become extremely rough over the next 48 hours.
6. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Deployed: The NDRF has pre-positioned several teams across vulnerable areas in Odisha and West Bengal to assist in evacuation, relief, and rescue operations post-landfall.
7. Flight Disruptions Expected: Air travel to and from Bhubaneswar and Kolkata could face significant disruptions over the next two days. Airlines are monitoring the situation and are likely to issue advisories regarding cancellations or delays.
8. Power Outage Preparations: Power supply agencies in both states are making contingency plans for potential outages caused by the cyclone. Repair teams have been put on standby to restore electricity as quickly as possible after the storm passes.
9. Health & Emergency Services Alerted: Hospitals and health centers in vulnerable regions have been equipped with additional medical supplies and emergency services, preparing to deal with potential injuries or health crises resulting from the cyclone.
10. Flooding Risk in Low-Lying Areas: With heavy rainfall predicted, there is a high risk of flooding in coastal and low-lying areas. Residents are being urged to relocate temporarily to safer regions and remain indoors during the storm.

Both Odisha and West Bengal are no strangers to cyclonic events, and authorities are pulling out all the stops to ensure the safety of their citizens. Residents are advised to stay updated on official advisories and follow evacuation protocols where applicable.