Nearly 600,000 people have been evacuated after Storm Dana brought 68 mph winds and heavy rain to India's east coast on Friday. The storm made landfall in Odisha state late Thursday night with gusts reaching 75 mph, according to the Indian Meteorological Department. Officials reported to the Press Trust of India news agency that the storm is expected to continue moving into northern Odisha.
Heavy rains and strong winds from the storm battered parts of Odisha and neighboring West Bengal, bringing down trees in several districts. As of early Friday, there were no reports of fatalities. The government and local agencies have taken significant steps to ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.
In anticipation of the storm's impact, nearly 600,000 people were evacuated from high-risk areas in Odisha. Rescue teams were placed on standby to address any further flooding and damage in vulnerable regions. These proactive measures were aimed at minimizing casualties and disruption as Storm Dana intensified.
Authorities also closed schools, canceled over 200 trains, and suspended flights to and from the capitals of Odisha and West Bengal in preparation for the storm's effects. Officials have been closely monitoring the situation and remain on high alert, especially in three districts of Odisha where forecasts predict a sea surge of about one yard, potentially inundating low-lying areas.
Current Status of Storm Dana
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reassured residents before the storm, stating, "The government is fully prepared to tackle the situation. You are in safe hands." As the storm progresses, coordination among local authorities is crucial for effective response and recovery efforts.
On Thursday, Indian television station Kalinga TV reported that over 5,000 relief centers have been established across the state, providing shelter for nearly 31,000 evacuated individuals. Tourists in the area have also been advised to vacate Puri by October 25, as authorities designate police officers to ensure immediate response in cyclone-vulnerable villages.
The impact of Storm Dana highlights the ongoing challenges faced by regions prone to severe weather events. As climate change continues to intensify the frequency and severity of such storms, the need for preparedness and resilience becomes increasingly vital for communities along India's eastern coast.
As Storm Dana continues to move, residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and adhere to safety guidelines issued by local authorities. The situation will be monitored closely, and updates will be provided as necessary.
Understanding India's Vulnerability to Storms
India's eastern coasts have long been susceptible to cyclones, with a noticeable increase in the number of intense storms over the years. Last year marked one of the deadliest cyclone seasons in recent history, resulting in the loss of 523 lives and causing an estimated $2.5 billion in damages.
Climate scientists indicate that severe storms are becoming more frequent in South Asia, driven by global warming and greenhouse gas emissions. This trend leads to stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and widespread damage, amplifying risks for the region.
As climate change progresses, communities must brace for more extreme weather events. Ongoing efforts to enhance preparedness and resilience are essential in safeguarding vulnerable populations against the impacts of future storms.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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