Cyclone Dana: Preparations Underway in Odisha and West Bengal
On October 23, the Indian Air Force (IAF) took proactive measures in anticipation of Cyclone Dana’s landfall on the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal. Two IAF aircraft transported 150 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel and relief materials to Bhubaneswar. The aircraft, an IL 76 and an AN 32, departed from Bhatinda and arrived early Wednesday morning.
Expected Impact Areas
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that Cyclone Dana will make landfall between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara and Bhadrak or Balasore along the Odisha coast. The Odisha government anticipates significant effects in Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Mayurbhanj, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri districts.
Weather Predictions
The IMD reported a deep depression over the East Central Bay of Bengal, moving at 18 km/h. As of 5:30 am on Wednesday, it was located 560 km southeast of Paradip, Odisha. The depression is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by October 24, with wind speeds reaching 100 to 110 km/h, gusting up to 120 km/h.
Precautionary Measures
Odisha’s Education Minister, Nityananda Gond, announced school closures in potentially affected areas from October 23 to 25 to ensure student safety. Colleges and universities in 14 districts, including Ganjam, Puri, and Jagatsinghpur, will also remain closed during this period.
Emergency Preparedness
Heavy rainfall is expected in Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal from October 23 to 26. NDRF teams are on standby, and additional rescue and relief teams from the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard are ready to respond.
Doubts Revealed
Cyclone Dana -: Cyclone Dana is a powerful storm with strong winds and heavy rain. It is expected to hit the coastal areas of Odisha and West Bengal in India.
IAF -: IAF stands for Indian Air Force. It is the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, responsible for defending the country’s airspace.
NDRF -: NDRF stands for National Disaster Response Force. It is a special force in India that helps during natural disasters like cyclones, floods, and earthquakes.
Bhubaneswar -: Bhubaneswar is the capital city of the Indian state of Odisha. It is one of the places where preparations are being made for the cyclone.
Balasore and Bhadrak -: Balasore and Bhadrak are districts in the state of Odisha, India. These areas are expected to be affected by Cyclone Dana.
120 km/h -: 120 km/h means 120 kilometers per hour. It is a measure of how fast the wind is blowing during the cyclone.