Oct 22, 2024
By: BI India Bureau
A weather system has developed into a depression, about 700 km southeast of Paradip (Odisha) and 750 km south-southeast of Sagar Island (West Bengal). It could brew into Cyclone Dana!
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The name "Dana," meaning "generosity" in Arabic, was suggested by Qatar. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) names cyclones to simplify tracking and reduce confusion during multiple storm events.
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In 2004, the WMO created a naming list for the North Indian Ocean, incorporating suggestions from India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) manages this process, ensuring names are neutral, easy to pronounce, and under eight letters.
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The tradition of naming began in the early 19th century, initially using locations or significant dates. Later, the names of saints and famous figures were introduced. By the mid-20th century, common female names became standard. However, the system changed in 2000 to include more inclusive names to reflect regional languages and cultures.
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Cyclone Dana is forecasted to make landfall between Puri (Odisha) and Sagar Island (West Bengal) by the midnight of October 24 or early morning on October 25. Wind speeds could reach 100-110 km/h, with gusts up to 120 km/h. Isolated heavy rains may lash Odisha on October 23 and 26, Gangetic West Bengal on October 23 and Jharkhand on October 24.
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