Cyclone Dana Alert: Coastal India Braces for Impact

The low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal is expected to escalate into Cyclone Dana. It threatens Odisha and West Bengal with severe weather, prompting closures and evacuations. Expected to hit the coast with winds up to 120 kmph, the states are on red alert to ensure safety.

The Indian Meteorological Department forecasts that a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal will intensify into Cyclone Dana, potentially affecting the Odisha and West Bengal coasts by October 24-25. A red warning for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and high winds has been issued.

Authorities have urged fishing communities and tourists to vacate the coastal regions for safety. Schools in 14 districts will close, while other planned events, like a terminal inauguration and President Murmu's visit to Odisha, have been postponed.

The Odisha government has mobilized disaster response forces and stocked cyclone shelters with essentials. Chief Minister Majhi emphasized a 'Zero Casualty' approach. Meanwhile, West Bengal braces for heavy rain in multiple districts, as coordination with the central government continues.

(With inputs from agencies.)