Cyclone Dana To Hit Odisha And West Bengal: What Does ‘Dana’ Mean?

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning as Cyclone Dana, a severe cyclonic storm, is set to make landfall on the Odisha coast between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara district and Dhamara in Bhadrak district between the night of October 24 and the morning of October 25. The storm, which developed over the east-central Bay of Bengal, is expected to move northwest and intensify by October 24, posing a significant threat to the coastal regions of Odisha and West Bengal.

Precautions and Preparations in Place

With heavy rainfall alerts issued for Odisha and West Bengal, the authorities have taken preemptive measures to minimize the impact of the Cyclone Dana. Schools, colleges, and universities in 14 districts of Odisha will remain closed from October 23 to 25. Both states are bracing for the potential damage from the cyclone, which is the second to hit India in two months, following Cyclone Asna in August.

Fishermen in coastal areas, particularly in Puri, have been moving their boats to safer locations in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. Residents of vulnerable coastal zones have been advised to evacuate, and disaster management teams are on high alert to provide assistance.

The Meaning Behind ‘Dana’

The name ‘Dana’ holds cultural significance, particularly in Arabic and Persian. In Arabic, it refers to a “perfectly sized, valuable, and beautiful pearl,” often associated with the rich history of pearl diving in the Gulf. In Persian, the word Dānā means “wise.” The name was proposed by Qatar as part of an international cyclone naming system, aimed at increasing public awareness and facilitating storm identification.

Regional Impact and Response

As the cyclone approaches, weather conditions in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have already been affected, and further disruptions are expected in the coming days. The IMD has been closely monitoring the situation, providing updates to help authorities and the public prepare. Cyclone Dana’s landfall is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rains, and possible flooding in coastal areas, making disaster preparedness essential for minimizing damage.