Weather Update: Cyclonic Storm Set to Hit Odisha and West Bengal Coasts, Heavy Rainfall Predicted in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple regions of India. A developing Cyclonic Storm over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify, bringing strong winds and significant rainfall, particularly along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal.  

Weather Systems at Play

A low-pressure area formed over the east-central Bay of Bengal has now intensified into a depression as of 22nd October. This depression, located about 700 km southeast of Paradip (Odisha), is moving west-northwest at 6 km/h and is expected to evolve into a Cyclonic Storm by 23rd October.

IMD forecasts the system to further intensify into a Severe Cyclonic Storm by the morning of 24th October, potentially impacting the coasts of North Odisha and West Bengal between Puri and Sagar Island. Wind speeds could reach 100-110 km/h, gusting up to 120 km/h during the night of 24th October and into the morning of 25th.

Rainfall and Regional Impacts

1. East India

Heavy rainfall is anticipated over Andaman & Nicobar Islands on 22nd October, with extremely heavy downpours expected in Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal from 24th to 25th October. Coastal regions should brace for the most severe weather during this period.

2. South Peninsular India

Southern states including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala will experience light to moderate rainfall from 22nd to 25th October. South Interior Karnataka is expected to witness isolated very heavy rainfall on 22nd October, while Rayalaseema and Coastal Andhra Pradesh could see heavy rains on 25th October.

3. West India

Over the next few days, Konkan & Goa and parts of Madhya Maharashtra are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall, with isolated thunderstorms and lightning. Heavy rainfall is likely in these regions on 22nd October. Following this, a dry spell is expected from 24th October onward, with minimal rain across the western parts of India, including Gujarat and Rajasthan.

4. Northeast India

Northeast India will experience light to moderate rainfall accompanied by isolated thunderstorms over the next week. Heavy rainfall is expected in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura from 23rd to 25th October. Arunachal Pradesh will see heavy showers on 23rd October, while light rainfall continues over the region throughout the week.

Key Weather Dates for Northeast India

• Assam & Meghalaya: Heavy rainfall on 23rd and 24th October

• Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram & Tripura: Heavy rain from 23rd to 25th October

• Arunachal Pradesh: Heavy rain on 23rd October

Wind Warning

The IMD has also issued a wind warning for various parts of the Bay of Bengal. Wind speeds will gradually increase as the Cyclonic Storm intensifies.

Impact on Coastal Areas

Communities along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal should prepare for potential disruptions due to wind damage, flooding, and rough sea conditions. Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into the Bay of Bengal from 23rd October onwards due to dangerous sea conditions.

With the impending development of a Severe Cyclonic Storm, residents of coastal regions and parts of southern India are urged to remain alert and take necessary precautions. Stay tuned for further updates and warnings.