Cyclone Dana looms: How you can keep your car safe

Discover some essential and rapid suggestions on actions to take and avoid in order to ensure your vehicle’s safety in stormy weather.

Over the past few days, Cyclone Dana has been grabbing attention nationwide in India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that this tropical cyclone is likely to escalate into a severe cyclonic storm within the upcoming hours. The IMD anticipates that the cyclone will intensify before hitting the shores between West Bengal and Odisha on Friday, October 25. When Cyclone Dana reaches land on Friday, coastal areas of West Bengal and Odisha, along with urban centers such as Kolkata and Bhubaneswar and their adjacent regions, are projected to face wind speeds reaching approximately 120 kmph.

The local authorities in the coastal areas of West Bengal and Odisha are relocating residents to secure shelters further inland. They are implementing preventive actions to reduce the storm’s impact. To prevent accidents, flight services at Kolkata and Bhubaneswar airports have been halted temporarily. Train services in the area are also facing disruptions. Cyclone Dana poses a significant threat, potentially affecting almost half of Odisha’s population post-landfall.

Ensuring personal safety during a storm is crucial, but it’s equally important to safeguard your vehicle. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to help you protect your car during severe weather conditions.

Parking your car in an exposed area should be avoided.

Parking your vehicle in an exposed area during a severe cyclone is a decision that should be avoided at all costs. It can lead to various calamities as debris, tree branches, or even uprooted trees can cause significant damage to your car. Strong winds during the storm may even displace the vehicle from its original position. It is advisable to always opt for covered parking or a roofed area. In case a covered spot is unavailable, utilizing a high-quality car cover, heavy blanket, or area rug can provide some protection. Securing the tires with chains or placing bricks in front and behind them can prevent any unwanted movement of the vehicle.

Steer clear of parking beneath trees or power lines.

When there’s a storm, it’s best to steer clear of parking your car near trees or power lines. The strong winds during severe storms could potentially uproot the trees or damage the power lines, causing them to fall on your vehicle and result in considerable damage. Opt for parking your car close to a building instead, as it can offer some protection by deflecting the wind away from your vehicle.

Ensure that you have your insurance documents readily accessible.

Don’t forget to review your car insurance policy to confirm coverage for flood or storm damage. It’s essential to have a copy of the policy on hand in case your vehicle sustains storm-related damage.