Low-pressure area in Bay of Bengal May develop into cyclone

Bhubaneswar, May 22: According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a low-pressure area emerged over the Southwest adjoining Westcentral Bay of Bengal on Wednesday, in line with their earlier predictions. Forecast suggests its movement northeastwards, likely consolidating into a Depression over central parts of the Bay of Bengal by May 24.

IMD Director General, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, stated that the system is expected to continue its northeastward trajectory and possibly intensify further afterward. The sea condition is already rough, with a gradual increase in wind speed anticipated over Central and north Bay of Bengal from May 23 onwards, prompting a caution for fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea.

When asked about the potential escalation into a deep depression or cyclone, Mohapatra clarified that no such forecasts have been issued yet. While affirming the formation of a depression and its likely intensification, precise predictions regarding maximum intensification remain pending.

Traditionally, the likelihood of a cyclone is heightened if a depression forms during May. Detailed forecasts regarding its intensity and coastal impact will be issued on May 23, as per IMD DG Mohapatra.

As of now, Odisha is not expected to bear a direct impact. However, a rainfall warning has been issued for Balasore and Bhadrak districts on May 25 and 26.