As cyclone Dana approaches Bengal and Odisha coast, what you need to know

A powerful cyclone is expected to barrel into India's eastern coast early on Friday. Here are some key details about its landfall and intensity, and the measures being taken by authorities to protect people and property.

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Published 24.10.24, 01:43 PM

Landfall

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Fishermen attempt to bring their boat back to shore during high tide before Cyclone Dana makes landfall in Bhadrak district in Odisha. (Reuters)

The 'severe cyclonic storm', named Dana, is expected to cross the coasts of the eastern states of Odisha and West Bengal between midnight (1830 GMT) Thursday and Friday morning with wind speeds of 100-110 kph (62-68 mph), gusting up to 120 kph (75 mph).

Current location

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Satellite image taken between 09:45 am to 10:12 am IST on Thursday, Oct 24, 2024 shows the location of Cyclone 'Dana'. (X/@Indiametdept)

The cyclone is travelling over the Bay of Bengal at a speed of 12 kph (7 mph), about 260 km (160 miles) southeast of Odisha's largest port of Paradip.

Evacuation

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People evacuated from Amarnagar village sit inside a cyclone shelter near Dhamara fishing harbour before Cyclone Dana makes landfall, in Bhadrak district of the eastern state of Odisha. (Reuters)

The states expect to evacuate around 300,000 people each, and Odisha has already moved 50,000 people to relief shelters.

Impact on travel

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Passengers at Calcutta airport. (X/@aaikolairport)

More than 200 trains have been cancelled and flights to and from the capital cities of both states - Calcutta and Bhubaneswar - will also remain suspended from Thursday evening to Friday morning.

Other mitigation measures

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Indian Navy personnel carry out preparations for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations in view of cyclone 'Dana' which is expected to make landfall in Odisha. (PTI)

Schools in several areas that are expected to bear the brunt of the cyclone have been closed

Fishermen have been asked to not venture to sea

Odisha's Paradip port has suspended operations

The Indian Coast Guard has positioned its vessels and aircraft to respond swiftly to any emergency at sea

The Indian Navy has put two ships with supplies and rescue and diving teams on standby to help with rescue and relief

Cyclone Dana India Meteorological Department (IMD)

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