Heavy Rainfall and Cyclone Impact Cause Disruption in Kerala and Odisha

Heavy rainfall affected several regions across Kerala on Friday, resulting in waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and significant inconvenience. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for five districts in the state, with a warning for thunderstorms. Simultaneously, Cyclone Dana made landfall in Odisha, gradually weakening after impacting the eastern coastal regions.

IMD Issues Orange Alert

The IMD uses a color-coded alert system to indicate the severity of weather conditions. An "orange" alert signifies that residents should "be prepared" for severe weather conditions, with expected rainfall ranging from 64.5 mm to 204.4 mm in a single day. It often indicates widespread high-intensity rainfall, raising the risk of waterlogging and localized flooding. Residents in affected areas are urged to be cautious, limit travel, and follow local authority advisories to stay safe.

Kerala on High Alert for Heavy Rainfall

In Kerala, the IMD’s orange alert applies to Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur. Heavy rains may lead to flash floods, landslides, and hazardous conditions. Additionally, a yellow alert, signifying rainfall between 6 and 11 cm, is in effect for seven other districts. IMD forecasts for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam anticipate thunderstorms with intense rainfall and gusty winds, with Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha also expecting moderate rainfall with strong winds.

Cyclone Dana Weakens After Odisha Landfall

Cyclone Dana made landfall on Thursday night between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara and Dhamra in Bhadrak, Odisha. Initially classified as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching 110 km/h, it has since weakened to a cyclonic storm. Odisha, West Bengal, and other nearby coastal areas experienced significant storm impacts.

Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi shared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were briefed on Odisha’s preparedness before the cyclone hit. The Congress party has called on the central government to provide full support for affected states, urging immediate deployment of emergency response efforts for public safety.

Following the landfall, Cyclone Dana was approximately 50 km north-northwest of Dhamra and 30 km northeast of Bhadrak. IMD reports predict that it will continue moving northwest, weakening further into a deep depression within the next six hours. The Doppler weather radar at Paradip is closely monitoring the cyclone’s progress and intensity.

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