Odisha was spared the full force of Cyclone Dana, thanks in part to two strategically positioned anticyclones that weakened the storm’s intensity. According to scientists from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), these high-pressure systems effectively sandwiched the cyclone, reducing its destructive potential.
The presence of the anticyclones, which push air toward land, acted as a barrier against the cyclone. Without them, widespread rainfall could have affected many districts in central Odisha, and stronger winds would have impacted a larger area. IMD scientist Uma Shankar Das noted that only the northern districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj experienced heavy rainfall as a result.
Additionally, the mangrove forests of Bhitarkanika National Park played a critical role in mitigating the cyclone’s effects. When Cyclone Dana made landfall near a tourist camp between 1:30 am and 3:30 am on Friday, the 209 sq km mangrove area in Kendrapara absorbed much of the storm’s impact. Sudarshan Yadav, divisional forest officer for Bhitarkanika, expressed surprise at the minimal damage near the landfall point, highlighting the importance of mangroves in cyclone protection.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, facing his first major natural disaster since taking office in June, praised the state’s response efforts, attributing success to teamwork and the blessings of Lord Jagannath. The government evacuated nearly six lakh residents, with the CM personally overseeing operations late into the night.
As the cyclone passed, wind speeds peaked at 110-120 km/h before dropping to 60-80 km/h. Heavy rain continued in northern districts, although rainfall activity is expected to lessen by Saturday. The storm surge reached heights of one to two meters, flooding low-lying areas in Kendrapada and Bhadrak and causing damage to trees and houses.
Chandbali in Bhadrak recorded the highest rainfall of 158.6 mm in the 24 hours ending 8:30 am on Friday, with several other areas exceeding 100 mm. Following landfall, the IMD issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in Balasore, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj districts.
Tragically, an 82-year-old woman from Bankual village in Kendrapada district died of a suspected heart attack in a cyclone shelter, although officials clarified that her death was not related to the cyclone.
