Cyclone Dana hit the eastern coast of India early today, leaving a trail of destruction in Odisha and West Bengal. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and powerful waves have uprooted trees, blocked roads, and disrupted life in many regions. As Cyclone Dana made landfall, authorities evacuated thousands of people to safer areas to reduce the storm’s impact.
Cyclone Dana Strikes Odisha Coast, Blocking Roads and Uprooting Trees
Cyclone Dana made landfall between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara and Dhamra in Bhadrak, Odisha. Winds as fast as 110 km/h battered the region. Many trees got uprooted, and roads were blocked by fallen debris, leaving several areas cut off. The strong winds also snapped power lines, plunging many parts into darkness. Flooded streets and damaged homes greeted coastal residents as they woke up to the aftermath. Rescue teams immediately began clearing debris and working to restore essential services.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the cyclone would weaken as it moves inland. However, heavy rains continue to fall on Odisha, worsening the situation. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi shared that, despite the destruction, no casualties occurred. The state successfully moved 6 lakh people to safe shelters before the storm intensified.
Heavy Rains Pound Southern West Bengal
The cyclone’s effects are also being felt in southern West Bengal. Areas like Kolkata and the coastal districts are enduring heavy rain and strong winds. Many low-lying neighborhoods are facing severe waterlogging, which has caused traffic jams and flooded homes.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee remained at the state secretariat all night to personally oversee the situation. She announced that over 2.4 lakh people had been moved to shelters. This proactive evacuation helped prevent any major mishaps. Some rivers in the area are rising, which could lead to more floods.
Violent Waves and Rising Water Levels
As Cyclone Dana approached, the sea became more dangerous. Massive waves pounded the Odisha and West Bengal coastlines, causing significant coastal erosion. Local officials warned fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea, as water levels remain dangerously high. The IMD has issued flood warnings for low-lying coastal areas, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid traveling unnecessarily.
Cyclone Weakens, But Odisha and West Bengal Face More Rain
Though Cyclone Dana is weakening, heavy rains are expected to continue for the next 24 hours. This poses an ongoing risk of flooding. Both Odisha and West Bengal remain on high alert. Relief efforts are in full swing as the authorities work to provide immediate help to those affected. Rescue workers, local police, and volunteers are on the ground, helping people and clearing roads that are still blocked by fallen trees and debris.
Governments Take Quick Action: Evacuations and Emergency Measures
Both the Odisha and West Bengal governments acted swiftly in the face of the cyclone’s arrival. In Odisha, authorities evacuated 6 lakh people, including 6,000 pregnant women, to health centers and safe shelters before the storm struck. West Bengal saw over 2.4 lakh people evacuated to safety. These rapid actions prevented large-scale tragedies. Both chief ministers, Mohan Charan Majhi and Mamata Banerjee, have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the public during these tough times.
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