Odisha : Severe Cyclonic Storm Dana struck the Odisha coast between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra late last night, bringing winds up to 120 km/h. Following landfall, Dana weakened to a cyclonic storm as it moved toward northern Odisha and West Bengal, impacting large areas of Kendrapara and Bhadrak districts. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that the landfall process extended into the morning, bringing intense rainfall and strong gusts.
Initial reports indicate no major casualties or extensive damage, thanks largely to Odisha’s robust preparedness. Cyclone response teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and Fire Services, promptly deployed across affected districts. They have cleared roadways obstructed by fallen trees in Kendrapara and Bhadrak, ensuring access to essential routes. Under Dana’s impact, regions near the landfall area experienced heightened sea tides and rainfall, leading to the collapse of several large trees, electric poles, and thatched homes. The state government has begun damage assessments to gauge Dana’s impact on infrastructure and agriculture in these coastal districts.
IMD has issued a red alert for nine Odisha districts, including Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Puri, predicting heavy rainfall and gusty winds. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable regions to stay indoors and maintain caution. Despite the significant impacts along the coast, Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital, saw minimal disruption, enabling Biju Patnaik International Airport to resume flights swiftly.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah reached out to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, extending full central support for post-cyclone recovery and relief efforts. Coastal state administration has mobilized resources to assist those affected and restore disrupted services, underscoring the resilience and coordination of response mechanisms in place for cyclones. The central and state governments’ collaborative approach highlights a proactive commitment to ensuring swift rehabilitation for communities impacted by Dana.
As Dana advances into West Bengal, authorities continue to monitor rainfall levels and flood risks in nearby areas, taking proactive measures to prevent further disruptions.
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