- By Nidhi Giri
- Mon, 21 Oct 2024 12:54 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Cyclone Dana, a tropical cyclone that formed in the Bay of Bengal, is expected to cause torrential rains in Odisha by October 24. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the low-pressure area formed in the Bay of Bengal will take the form of a cyclone by Wednesday. As a result, heavy rains are forecast in the coastal districts of Bengal.
Cyclone Naming Process
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is responsible for maintaining the list of names for tropical cyclones globally. The WMO uses a predetermined list of names, which are assigned alphabetically and rotate every six years.
Story Behind "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. The name "Dana" is derived from Arabic, meaning "generosity" or "bounty."
Regional Significance
Naming cyclones after regional words or names helps raise awareness and promotes cultural exchange among countries affected by these storms. It also makes communication and warning systems more effective.
Recent cyclones in the region have been named after contributions from various countries, including:
- Cyclone Tauktae (named by Myanmar, meaning "gecko")
- Cyclone Nivar (named by Iran, meaning "light" or "breeze")
- Cyclone Amphan (named by Thailand, meaning "sky")
Cyclone Dana: Expected Impact
Wind speeds off the Odisha-West Bengal coast are expected to reach 60 km/h from October 23, increasing to 120 km/h from October 24 night to October 25 morning. The weather agency has advised fishermen of West Bengal and Odisha to remain off the sea on October 23.
Fishermen have been advised to not venture into Andaman Sea till October 21, Central Bay of Bengal during October 22 and 24 and north Bay of Bengal during October 24 to 25.