Tropical Storm Dana is set to bring strong winds and heavy rain to India’s eastern coastline, with wind speeds expected to reach up to 110 kph (68 mph). The storm is predicted to make landfall late Thursday or early Friday, posing a significant threat to the region.
Climate scientists attribute the increase in severe storms in South Asia to global warming, which has made these weather events more extreme and unpredictable. In preparation for the storm, authorities in Odisha have closed schools, canceled transportation services, and evacuated over 300,000 people from vulnerable areas.
With several districts in Odisha and West Bengal likely to be affected by the storm, officials are on high alert and have deployed aid and rescue workers to assist those in need. India’s eastern coasts have a history of cyclones, and the rising number of intense storms is a growing concern for the region.
Despite the impending threat, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reassured the public that the government is well-prepared to handle the situation, urging residents to trust in the safety measures put in place.