Bhubaneswar, Oct 20: A cyclonic storm is very likely to hit the Odisha coast on October 24, according to the India Meteorological Department. 

The cyclonic circulation over  North Andaman Sea now lies over North Andaman Sea and adjoining areas of east-central & southeast Bay of Bengal at 1730 hrs IST  of today, the 20th of October 2024. Under its influence, a Low Pressure Area is very likely to form over the East-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining the north Andaman Sea during next 12 hours. 

Then it is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression by October 22 morning and into a cyclonic storm by October 23, 2024 over Eastcentral Bay of Bengal. Thereafter, it is very likely to move northwestwards and reach northwest Bay of Bengal off Odisha-West Bengal coasts by October 24 morning.

By its impart wind blow upto 120 km per hour may occur and heavy rains will occur in the coastal and interior Odisha. 

The State government has put districts of Puri, Khordha, Ganjam and Jagatsinghpur on red alert. 

Two days- October 24 and 25- are very important for Odisha. Twenty to 30 cm rainfall may occur and there may be flood-like situation in the low-lying areas. Fishermen have been instructed not to venture into the sea and those fisherment who have gone into the sea have been advised to return home by October 21.

The state government has started preparations to combat the possible cyclone. The Chief Secretary reviewed the preparations. He directed district administrations to remain alert and keep cyclone shelters ready.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said NDRF and ODRAF teams have been alerted. He said that the government is fully prepared. Citizens don't need to panic. 

Meanwhile, the Consumer Affairs Minister appealed to the people not to indulge in black marketing of essential commodities. Everyone should be careful. The government will not tolerate blackmarketing of essential commodities.