Satellite captures Cyclone Dana barrelling towards Odisha coast

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Dana is likely to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port with wind speeds up to 120 kmph.

In Short

• The images were captured using Isro's INSAT-3DR
• Odisha government has intensified evacuation efforts in coastal districts
• The weather system over the Bay of Bengal was moving north-northwestwards

Indian satellites have captured imagery showing Cyclone Dana barreling towards the Odisha coast, as the state braces for landfall expected early Friday morning.

The severe cyclonic storm was located within 200 km of the Odisha coastline on Thursday afternoon, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to several parts of the state. The images were captured using Isro's INSAT-3DR.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Dana is likely to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port with wind speeds up to 120 km/h.

As the cyclone approaches, the Odisha government has intensified evacuation efforts in coastal districts.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held an emergency review meeting, instructing officials to ensure "zero casualty" during the natural disaster1. Approximately 300,000 people have already been moved to cyclone shelters, with evacuation operations ongoing.

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The IMD reports that the weather system over the Bay of Bengal was moving north-northwestwards at 12 km/h1. It was last observed 210 km southeast of Paradip, 240 km south-southeast of Dhamra, and 310 km south of Sagar Island.

In preparation for the cyclone's impact, authorities have set up 7,285 cyclone centers and deployed 91 medical teams.

Additionally, 19 teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), 51 teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and fire services personnel are assisting with evacuations and road clearance.

Heavy rainfall has already been recorded in some areas, with Paradip receiving 62 mm and Rajnagar in Kendrapara district receiving 24 mm in a four-hour period. The IMD has issued a "red warning" for heavy to very heavy rainfall in seven districts and an "orange warning" for five others.

As Cyclone Dana approaches, residents in affected areas are urged to follow official advisories and evacuation orders to ensure their safety.