A low pressure area is likely to form over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal (BoB) under the influence of Monday’s cyclonic circulation in the next 48 hours, the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) said on Tuesday.
IMD DG Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the system is likely to move west-northwest wards and concentrate into a depression by October 22 over central BoB.
“There is every possibility that the system will further intensify into a cyclonic storm over west-central Bay of Bengal subsequently,” said Mohapatra.
He said that so far, any forecast on what would be the intensity of the cyclone and which coast it would cross has not been made.
“Only after the low pressure forms, we will be in a better position to forecast the areas which will be affected by the cyclone, its intensity and the areas which might get affected including rainfall,” Mohapatra added.
The cyclonic storm would be named as ‘Sitrang’ if it forms.
The Regional Office of the IMD here said there is possibility of isolated rainfall in the State up to October 23. Under the influence of the anticipated system, squally weather with surface wind speed reaching 45 to 55 km gusting up to 65 kmph over deep sea areas of west central adjoining northwest BoB is likely to prevail from October 22 morning.
“Fishermen are warned not to venture into deep sea areas of west-central adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal from October 22 morning as the sea would be rough,” said the weather office.
Meanwhile, the State Government asked the district Collectors to remain alert in view of the IMD forecast regarding formation of a cyclone. At an emergency meeting presided over by the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), clear instructions were given to the Collectors to remain prepared.
“The leave of employees has been cancelled and they have been asked to remain present in headquarters,” said OSDMA Executive Director Gyana Das.
According to Das, so far the IMD has not made any forecast or projection regarding the path of the cyclone or what would be its intensity. However, every possible step is being taken by the Government to deal with any emergency.