Cyclone Dana: IAF Mobilizes NDRF Teams to Odisha, Education Institutions Shut Down

Cyclone Dana is set to strike Odisha and West Bengal. The Indian Air Force dispatched NDRF teams, and extensive preparations are underway. Schools, colleges, and universities will remain closed in at-risk districts. Heavy rainfall and severe cyclonic conditions are expected, with emergency services on standby.

In a coordinated response to the looming threat of Cyclone Dana, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has airlifted 150 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel to Bhubaneswar. Two aircraft, an IL 76 and an AN 32, transported teams and relief materials from Bhatinda early Wednesday morning, according to IAF sources.

The Indian Meteorological Department predicts that Cyclone Dana will impact coastal areas between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara and Bhadrak or Balasore. Maximum damage is expected in districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Mayurbhanj, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri in Odisha.

A deep depression over the East Central Bay of Bengal is intensifying, moving west-northwestwards at 18 km per hour. Forecasts indicate it will develop into a severe cyclonic storm by October 24, with landfall expected between the north coasts of Odisha and West Bengal between Puri and Sagar Island with winds reaching up to 120 km per hour.

As part of precautionary measures, Odisha's Education Minister Nityananda Gond has announced the closure of schools in vulnerable areas from October 23-25. Similarly, colleges and universities in 14 districts including Puri and Jagatsinghpur will also close during this period.

The Indian Meteorological Department warns of heavy rainfall in Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal from October 23-26. NDRF teams are on standby, with additional support from the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard prepared for deployment. These measures aim to mitigate the impact of the storm and ensure public safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)