With Heavy Rain and Strong Winds, Dhamra Prepares for Imminent Landfall of Cyclone Dana Tonight
Cyclone Dana is causing increasing anxiety in the coastal regions of India as it approaches landfall, expected to occur tonight in Dhamra. Residents are already facing terrifying conditions, with relentless heavy rain and fierce winds making it difficult to stand upright. The cyclone is currently located 260 km from Paradip, 290 km from Dhamra, and 350 km from Sagar Island.
Weather reports indicate that Cyclone Dana is likely to make landfall between 11:30 PM tonight and 5:30 AM Friday, specifically along the Dhamra and Bhitarkanika coastlines. The cyclone has strengthened significantly and is now classified as a severe cyclonic storm. As a precautionary measure, red alerts have been issued for the Odisha-Bengal coastline, indicating the potential for extreme weather conditions.
Since Wednesday night, Dhamra has been experiencing continuous rainfall, with heavy downpours intensifying throughout the day. By midday, the rain had escalated, creating a perilous situation as dark clouds enveloped the area. Visibility has significantly decreased due to the torrential rain and strong winds, which are making it challenging for residents to navigate.
Adding to the concerns is the issue of tidal flooding. The cyclone’s predicted landfall coincides with high tide, causing the sea to swell dangerously. As the water level rises, there is a significant risk of flooding in the coastal areas, especially in fishing villages adjacent to Dhamra port, which may soon be submerged. Local authorities are taking immediate action, evacuating residents to relief centers and safer shelters.
The impact of the cyclone is not limited to Dhamra. The Bhitarkanika region, known for its mangrove forests, is also at risk. The ferocity of Cyclone Dana could severely damage these critical ecosystems, reminiscent of the devastation caused during Cyclone Bulbul, which harmed the Sundarbans mangrove forests.
Concerns are similarly high in Paradip, where nearby villages like Gada, Kujang, Ramnagar, and Musadihara, adjacent to the Mahanadi River, could also face significant impacts from the cyclone. During landfall, wind speeds may reach up to 120 km/h, posing an imminent threat to life and property.
In preparation for the cyclone, operations at Paradip port were halted on Thursday, and vessels have been cleared from the waters. Residents are still haunted by memories of the devastating super cyclone of 1999, leading to heightened fear and anxiety in the community. State-owned factories have ceased production, and workers have been instructed to remain in their accommodations as a safety measure. Rescue teams are on standby, ready to respond to any emergencies that may arise.
As Cyclone Dana approaches, the situation in Dhamra and surrounding areas remains critical. The combination of heavy rain, high winds, and tidal flooding creates a volatile environment, and all residents are urged to stay safe and heed local authorities’ warnings.