• Cyclone Dana has formed over the Bay of Bengal, intensifying from a deep depression and now moving towards the coastline of Odisha and West Bengal. The cyclone is projected to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port on Friday, October 25.
• As wind speeds are expected to reach 120 km/h, coastal regions are bracing for heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings, particularly for fishermen, while both rail and air travel have been significantly disrupted. The Indian Coast Guard is currently on high alert.
• Fishermen are advised against venturing into the sea from October 23 to 25, with winds anticipated to reach 60 km/h along the coasts before escalating to 120 km/h by the night of October 24.
• West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reported that one fatality has occurred in the state due to the cyclone. In response to the threat, the state administration has evacuated approximately 216,000 people from low-lying areas. Chief Minister Banerjee, who remained at the state secretariat overnight to oversee the situation, has directed officials to ensure the distribution of relief materials to those affected by the storm.

 

Source: Business Standard