What’s Behind Cyclone Dana’s Name And Its Impact On Odisha?

Cyclone Dana, which is expected to intensify and approach the Odisha-West Bengal coast by October 24, has raised concerns as it is set to bring heavy rains to Odisha in the coming days.

But have you ever wondered how tropical cyclones get their names? Let's take a closer look at the naming process and the origins of Cyclone Dana, as reported by Hindustan Times.

The Naming Process: A Global Effort

The names of tropical cyclones are managed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which ensures that a predetermined list of names is used for each storm. These names are rotated every six years and follow an alphabetical order. The process is designed to help improve communication, raise awareness, and make it easier for people to follow the path and impact of these storms.

The Origin of 'Dana'

The name Dana was contributed by Saudi Arabia, one of the 14 countries participating in the WMO's tropical cyclone naming system for the North Indian Ocean, as reported by Hindustan Times. The word "Dana" is derived from Arabic, meaning "generosity" or "bounty." It is a reflection of the cultural significance of the region, and naming cyclones after local terms encourages awareness and fosters cultural exchange among nations affected by these storms.

This is not the first time a cyclone has been named after a regional term. Some notable examples include:

• Cyclone Tauktae (named by Myanmar, meaning "gecko")
• Cyclone Nivar (named by Iran, meaning "light" or "breeze")
• Cyclone Amphan (named by Thailand, meaning "sky")

These names help make the storms more relatable and create a sense of regional identity in the global effort to track and predict their paths.

Cyclone Dana's Expected Impact

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Dana is expected to form over the central Andaman Sea by October 23. By the morning of October 24, it is predicted to reach the northwest Bay of Bengal, impacting the Odisha-West Bengal coast.

The storm's winds are expected to reach 60 km/h by October 23, intensifying to 120 km/h by the night of October 24 and into the morning of October 25. Fishermen along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal are advised to stay off the sea starting October 23 due to the anticipated high winds and rough sea conditions, as per media reports.

Safety Measures and Preparations

In light of the approaching cyclone, the IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until after October 25. Additionally, people in the affected areas are encouraged to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions, especially in low-lying areas that may be prone to flooding.

As Cyclone Dana makes its way toward India, it is important to stay informed and follow the safety guidelines issued by local authorities.