Dhaka, Oct 21 (V7N) – As memories of Cyclone Rimmel begin to fade, another looming cyclone, named ‘Dana,’ is set to form in the Bay of Bengal, raising alarms for the coastal regions of Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar. The Meteorological Department has reported that the depression over the east-central Bay of Bengal and the North Andaman Sea has intensified into a distinct low-pressure system, which is expected to gather strength and develop into a cyclonic storm by October 23-24.

Meteorologist Omar Farooq confirmed that a low-pressure system had formed but issued no immediate warnings for seaports. However, he emphasized that the system could intensify, warning of the possibility of a cyclone by the end of the week.

According to climate experts and meteorologists, Cyclone 'Dana' is predicted to affect the coastal areas of Odisha, West Bengal, and the Khulna and Barisal divisions of Bangladesh. Experts also noted that the cyclone may follow a path similar to the devastating Cyclone Amphan, bringing with it the potential for high tides and severe damage.

Windy.com, a popular cyclone monitoring website, forecasts that the cyclone could make landfall near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, late Friday, with winds expected to reach speeds of 120-135 km/h. Much like Cyclone Rimmel, it is feared that Cyclone 'Dana' could linger over land for an extended period, exacerbating its impact.

The Meteorological Department anticipates heavy rainfall across most of Bangladesh from October 23 to 26, with the highest precipitation expected in Khulna, Barisal, Rajshahi, Dhaka, and Rangpur divisions. Rainfall from the cyclone could persist for up to five days, causing widespread disruptions.

If the cyclone coincides with high tide, coastal areas in Khulna could experience tidal surges as high as 6 to 8 feet above normal. Even during low tide, tides may rise 2 to 4 feet above average, increasing the risk of flooding.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that a cyclonic circulation developed over the Andaman Sea on October 19, leading to the current low-pressure system. They predict that the cyclone will move west-northwestward and intensify by October 22 before evolving into a severe cyclone on October 23. It is expected to make landfall between Puri, Odisha, and Sagar Island, West Bengal, between the night of October 24 and early morning on October 25.

Long-term forecasts issued earlier this month by meteorologists indicated that one to three low-pressure systems might develop in the Bay of Bengal during October, with the potential for cyclone formation.

Historically, the Bay of Bengal has witnessed 51 cyclones and 43 severe cyclones in the 132 years from 1891 to 2023 during the month of October, with 19 of them hitting the coast of Bangladesh.

As preparations begin for Cyclone 'Dana,' coastal communities are being advised to stay alert and follow updates closely. The authorities are expected to issue further warnings and instructions as the cyclone develops.

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