Cyclone Alert: Severe Storm Brewing Over Bay of Bengal

A low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression and is expected to become a severe cyclonic storm, impacting Odisha and West Bengal. The IMD warns of heavy rainfall and high winds scheduled between October 23 and 25, urging caution and preparedness.

A depression has formed from a well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, with the potential to escalate into a severe cyclonic storm, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported on Tuesday morning.

The depression is currently positioned 730 km southeast of Paradip in Odisha and 770 km south-southeast of Sagar island in West Bengal, moving west-northwestwards. It is projected to evolve into a cyclonic storm by October 23, crossing north Odisha and southern West Bengal coasts as a severe cyclonic storm on October 25, reaching wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph.

Fishermen are advised against sea ventures from October 23 to 25, as wind speeds may hit 60 kmph along the Odisha-West Bengal coasts, increasing gradually. The storm is expected to bring significant rainfall to southern West Bengal, with extremely heavy downpours in regions like South 24 Parganas and Paschim Medinipur. In preparation for potential impacts, Odisha has canceled staff leaves during the forecasted storm period.

(With inputs from agencies.)