Cyclone Dana impacts Odisha as heavy rain and winds reach 110 km/h, causing disruptions and evacuations. Cyclone Dana, named by Qatar, hit the Odisha coast early today, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. The cyclone made landfall between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara and Dhamra in Bhadrak, with wind speeds reaching 110 km/h. Both Odisha and West Bengal are experiencing severe weather. Authorities have taken steps to minimize damage and ensure public safety. Here’s what you need to know about Cyclone Dana’s impact and ongoing relief efforts.
Cyclone Dana Impacts Odisha Coastline with Severe Weather
Cyclone Dana reached the coast of Odisha just after midnight. It caused heavy rain and powerful winds, especially in Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, and Jagatsinghpur. Winds blew at 110 km/h, and the rain caused disruptions across many areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects the cyclone to weaken into a storm by noon today.
Disruptions and Safety Measures in Odisha and Bengal
Uprooted Trees and Blocked Roads:
Reports came in of trees falling and roads being blocked. Many areas, including Bhubaneswar, faced challenges with transportation and movement.
Transport Services Shut Down:
Airports in Bhubaneswar and Kolkata halted operations on Thursday night. Flights resumed early this morning after the storm’s intensity decreased. Train services were also disrupted, with over 400 trains canceled.
Evacuations:
In Odisha, authorities evacuated about 5.8 lakh people to safety. Bengal moved nearly 2.5 lakh people to shelters. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi deployed 385 rescue teams. These included the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and Odisha Police. Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stayed at the state secretariat overnight to monitor the situation. She ensured evacuees were safely moved to camps.
What Residents Need to Know
Weather Updates:
Citizens should stay indoors as heavy rain and strong winds will continue for a while. Even though the cyclone is weakening, residents in affected areas should be cautious.
Power and Communication Disruptions:
High winds may cause power cuts, and trees might damage phone lines. Emergency crews are working to restore services.
Precaution in Neighboring States:
States close to Odisha and Bengal should also be alert. Even though the cyclone is losing strength, it could still bring heavy rain and winds to nearby areas like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.
What’s Next?
Authorities are focusing on relief efforts. Rescue teams are clearing roads and restoring power as quickly as possible. Government agencies will assess property damage and begin repairs soon.
What You Can Do:
- Follow weather updates from reliable sources, like the IMD.
- Avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary, especially in coastal areas.
- Have emergency supplies ready, including food, water, and charged devices.
Communities Responding to the Crisis
Despite the cyclone’s intensity, communities have come together to support each other. Volunteers are helping neighbors with evacuations and offering shelter. With the help of rescue teams, residents are focusing on recovery and returning to normal.
Final Thoughts
Although Cyclone Dana is weakening, its effects are still being felt across Odisha and Bengal. Residents should stay indoors, follow safety advice, and remain patient as authorities work to restore normalcy. With community support and government efforts, the recovery process is moving quickly.
