Cyclone Dana is gaining strength and is expected to make landfall on India's eastern coast, threatening states like Odisha and West Bengal with heavy rains and intense winds. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Dana is forecasted to turn into a severe cyclonic storm, making landfall on Thursday, October 24. This article delves into everything you need to know about Cyclone Dana, its naming process, and the impact it might have on the Indian subcontinent.
Cyclone Dana: Latest Forecast
Cyclone Dana, currently brewing over the Bay of Bengal, is already causing significant disruptions in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The IMD has warned that the storm could intensify as it approaches Odisha and West Bengal, raising concerns about potential flooding and wind damage. Local authorities in these states are on high alert, and evacuations may be in place for low-lying coastal areas.
This marks the second major cyclonic storm to hit the Indian coast in two months, following the impact of Cyclone Asna in August. While the regions brace for Dana's arrival, let’s take a look at the naming of this powerful storm and how cyclones receive their names globally.
Why Is the Cyclone Named ‘Dana’?
Cyclones are not randomly named; their names follow a systematic international protocol. Cyclone Dana was named by Qatar, one of the nations included in the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) panel for cyclone naming. The name ‘Dana’ holds a significant meaning, derived from Arabic, where it translates to ‘generosity’. Naming storms after everyday concepts or virtues is a common practice that helps humanize these natural events, making them easier to communicate across media and regions.
The Science Behind Cyclone Naming
Cyclone naming isn't as arbitrary as it may seem. The WMO introduced the naming system to streamline the identification process of cyclones, ensuring that warnings and updates are communicated clearly. In the Indian Ocean region, cyclones are named by a collective group of 13 countries, including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, among others. This system helps avoid confusion, especially when multiple cyclones occur simultaneously.
Each country submits a list of names, and the WMO panel finalizes a rotating list for future storms. For Cyclone Dana, Qatar selected the name from its submitted list. Other familiar cyclone names in this region, such as Titli, Fani, Biparjoy, or Nisarga, were similarly chosen from country submissions.
How Does the Naming Process Work?
The practice of naming cyclones in the northern Indian Ocean began in 2000. Prior to that, cyclones were identified by their numbers, which could often lead to confusion. The WMO, along with regional meteorological bodies, created a standardized naming procedure. When a tropical cyclone reaches a sustained wind speed of 62 km/h or higher, it is assigned a name from the pre-selected list.
With 13 countries participating, each country contributes 13 names for cyclones. This ensures that every country has a say in naming the storms that impact their region. In 2018, the group expanded to include Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Yemen. This diversity in contributors adds an element of regional representation in the names chosen.
Once a name is used, it is retired and replaced with a new one. This ensures that no confusion arises between storms in different years.
How Does Cyclone Dana Compare to Recent Cyclones?
While Cyclone Dana is anticipated to bring widespread heavy rainfall and strong winds, experts are comparing it to Cyclone Asna, which hit India’s western coast earlier this year. Cyclone Asna caused significant damage and flooding in several states. Cyclone Dana, however, is expected to impact the eastern coast, which is known to face frequent cyclones due to its proximity to the Bay of Bengal.
Preparing for Cyclone Dana’s Impact
With the landfall expected on October 24, authorities in Odisha and West Bengal have ramped up efforts to prepare for the storm. Warnings of flooding, high-speed winds, and storm surges have been issued. Coastal communities are being urged to stay vigilant and follow evacuation protocols if necessary.
Moreover, agencies like the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed to help with disaster management, while fishermen and coastal residents have been asked to avoid the sea during the storm's approach. Heavy rainfall alerts have been issued across various districts, and the region’s dams and water reservoirs are being monitored closely to prevent breaches.
The Importance of Cyclone Naming
The naming of cyclones plays a crucial role in ensuring that people and agencies stay informed and prepared. By giving each storm a distinct identity, communication about warnings and disaster preparedness becomes much more efficient. For instance, names like Fani and Titli have become synonymous with powerful cyclones in Indian history. Likewise, Dana will soon join the list as an unforgettable name associated with a severe weather event in 2024.
Conclusion
Cyclone Dana, meaning 'generosity’, is far from a benevolent force. As the eastern coast of India braces for impact, it is vital for residents to heed warnings and stay informed. Cyclones, though unpredictable, have become more manageable with advancements in meteorology and structured naming conventions.
Stay tuned for further updates on Cyclone Dana as the IMD and disaster management authorities continue to monitor its progress and provide essential information to ensure the safety of those in its path.
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