How Cyclone Dana Got its Name

Puri: As Cyclone Dana nears the western coastal region of Puri, Odisha , the city is on high alert for severe weather. Expected to make landfall by October 24, the storm is developing in the East-Central Bay of Bengal, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing warnings for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding.

What Is the Meaning of 'Dana'?

Cyclone Dana gets its name from Saudi Arabia, as part of the World Meteorological Organization's (WMO) system for naming tropical storms in the North Indian Ocean. In Arabic, the word "Dana" means "a perfectly sized, precious pearl," symbolizing something rare and beautiful. The name was chosen as a tribute to the region’s historical pearl-diving traditions. In Persian, "Dana" also means "donation" or "grant."

Why Cyclones Are Named

Cyclones are named to make it easier to track and communicate about the storm. In 2020, a list of names for cyclones in the North Indian Ocean was created by 13 countries, including India and Bangladesh . This helps the public and authorities quickly identify and discuss a storm, avoiding confusion.

How Cyclones Get Their Names

The WMO ensures that cyclone names are neutral, easy to pronounce, and suitable for public use. Countries suggest names at regular meetings, where each name is carefully selected to meet specific criteria. This system of naming helps raise awareness and makes it easier for people to follow weather updates, especially when there are multiple storms in a season.

As Puri and surrounding coastal regions brace for Cyclone Dana’s landfall, local authorities have urged residents to stay alert and follow safety instructions