As of 7:30 am, it was centered over northern coastal Odisha, and the severe cyclonic storm has since shifted north-northwestward.
Cyclone Dana: Strong winds and heavy rainfall swept across parts of Odisha and West Bengal following the severe cyclonic storm’s landfall in Odisha. Images and videos capturing the destruction have surfaced on social media, showing tidal surges and high waves crashing onto West Bengal’s Old Digha Beach.
ANI shared a video on X, just over a minute and a half long, capturing tides much higher than usual as powerful waves crash against the coastline.
What did the IMD say?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been providing regular updates on Cyclone Dana’s path through posts on X. In an earlier update, the IMD reported, “The severe cyclonic storm ‘Dana’ moved north-northwestwards at a speed of 12 kmph, centered over north coastal Odisha, approximately 15 km north of Dhamara and 30 km north-northwest of Habalikhati nature camp (Bhitarkanika).”
“It is expected to move west-northwestward across northern Odisha and gradually weaken into a cyclonic storm by late morning on October 25. The system remains under continuous monitoring by the Doppler weather radar at Paradip,” the department added.
Social media reactions:
The beach video, which has garnered numerous views, has sparked concern as Cyclone Dana unfolds. People have shared messages of support and prayers for everyone’s safety.
One person wrote, “Praying for everyone’s safety. We’re not prepared to hear any tragic news.” Another added, “Strong winds are blowing in West Bengal too.” A third simply commented, “Praying for everyone.”
