A low-pressure area has formed over the East Central Bay of Bengal this morning, and it will develop into precipitation tomorrow. As a result, this potential storm, named ‘Dana,’ is set to form on the 23rd and is expected to cross the Odisha-West Bengal coast on the morning of the 24th, according to the Bhubaneswar Regional Meteorological Centre.
Additionally, Manorama Mohanty, Director of the Bhubaneswar Regional Meteorology, states that heavy rain will begin in the state on the 23rd due to the approaching storm. Over the next three days (23rd, 24th, and 25th), most areas will likely experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, with some districts expected to receive 20 to 30 cm of rain. In certain locations, rainfall may exceed 30 cm.
Furthermore, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, and Ganjam districts face the highest risk for heavy rainfall. Residents in these areas should prepare for uprooted trees and flooding in low-lying regions. The regional weather center director advises people to stay calm and seek safe shelter.
Meanwhile, meteorologists will assess the exact wind speed over land as the storm approaches. After the low-pressure area condenses and precipitation begins, they will provide updated wind speed estimates. When the storm hits the coast, wind speeds at sea are projected to reach 100 to 120 km/h. However, the precise landfall location will become clearer as the event approaches.
Finally, the storm will create rough sea conditions. Consequently, authorities have prohibited fishermen from going out to sea, and those already at sea must return. Reports indicate that some fishermen have already returned to the Paradip, Gopal, and Balasore coasts this morning.