Cyclone Dana To Strike Odisha, West Bengal On October 24: Essential Safety Tips You Need to Know

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that a severe cyclonic storm will approach the Odisha coast, with landfall anticipated soon. Areas such as Bhadrakh, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, and Cuttack may experience wind speeds ranging from 100 to 110 km/h. The low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall in Odisha's Puri and West Bengal's Sagar Island during the night of Thursday, October 24, and into Friday, October 25. Below are some crucial safety tips to keep in mind during the cyclone.

Cyclone Dana To Hit Odisha And West Bengal

As cyclonic storm ‘Dana’ is anticipated to hit the Odisha-West Bengal coast, specifically between Puri and Sagar Island, on the night of October 24 and 25, 2024, the Odisha government announced its commitment to ensuring ‘100 percent evacuations’ from vulnerable areas. According to the Indian Express, the storm is expected to produce wind speeds between 100-120 km/h.

The government has advised tourists and pilgrims from other states to vacate Puri town by Wednesday morning. Odisha's Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari also requested that individuals refrain from visiting Puri on October 24 and 25, 2024, due to the IMD's warning that the area may experience significant impacts. Puri, home to the revered Lord Jagannath temple, attracts numerous pilgrims from across the nation.

Although the IMD has not yet pinpointed the exact landfall location for the cyclone, several models indicate it may occur in northern Odisha. The storm is anticipated to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to both coastal and northern regions of the state. 

According to IMD sources, rainfall amounts of 7-20 cm, with isolated areas experiencing extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm, are expected in the districts of Mayurbhanj, Cuttack, Jajpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur. This could potentially lead to flash floods in those areas.

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Safety Tips During Cyclone

Here are some essential do's and don'ts to follow during a cyclone, as recommended by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):

Do's:

• Stay Updated: Regularly check weather updates from trustworthy sources like the IMD or local news outlets.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit containing essential supplies, such as water, food, medications, and a first-aid kit.
• Secure Your Home: Reinforce doors and windows, and remove any loose items from outside that could become dangerous in high winds.
• Follow Evacuation Orders: If local authorities issue evacuation notices, heed them and move to safer areas if you're in a high-risk zone.
• Remain Indoors: Stay inside during the cyclone, away from windows and doors, until you are certain it is safe to go outside.
• Help Neighbours: Check in on your neighbours, especially the elderly or those with disabilities, to ensure they are safe and have necessary supplies.

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Don'ts:

• Avoid Travel: Do not drive or walk through flooded areas, as water levels can increase quickly and may conceal dangerous debris.
• Skip Candles: Refrain from using candles for lighting, as they can create a fire hazard. Use flashlights or battery-operated lights instead.
• Stay Clear of Windows: Do not linger near windows or doors, as flying debris can lead to serious injuries.
• Don't Use Electrical Appliances: Avoid using electrical devices during the storm to reduce the risk of shocks or short circuits.
• Stay Calm: Keep a level head and help reassure others, as panic can lead to poor choices in emergencies.

Preparing for a cyclone requires implementing proactive strategies to guarantee safety and reduce risks. By adhering to the guidelines outlined by the National Disaster Management Authority, individuals can safeguard themselves and their loved ones against the potentially destructive impacts of severe weather.

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Credits: India Meteorological Department Twitter