Bhubaneswar: Season’s first cyclone is likely to take shape around October 23. Informing this on Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for the Odisha coast as Cyclone Dana is expected to bring wind speeds of 100-120 kmph on October 24.
As per IMD, a Low Pressure Area is very likely to form over the Eastcentral Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Andaman Sea during next 24 hours.
Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of IMD, said, “Under its influence, the sea conditions will remain rough, and wind speeds will escalate to 100-120 kmph along the Odisha coast by the night of October 24”. He also warned of heavy rainfall starting from October 23, with the most intense downpours expected on October 24 and 25.
It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression by October 22 morning and into a cyclonic storm by October 23, 2024 over Eastcentral Bay of Bengal. Thereafter, it is very likely to move northwestwards and reach northwest Bay of Bengal off Odisha-West Bengal coasts by 24th October morning.
According to the IMD, the system is currently under observation and is showing signs of rapid intensification. Coastal districts in both states are advised to prepare for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding. Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea from October 22 onwards.