Bay of Bengal system likely to intensify into cyclone; fishermen asked to return

Chennai: A weather system over the southeast Bay of Bengal is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm by Monday evening and could subsequently intensify into a severe cyclonic storm, the Meteorological Department has forecast.

Fishermen have been advised to return to shore as strong winds are expected over the southwest Bay of Bengal until November 18. The Indian Coast Guard, meanwhile, said ships and aircraft were ready for rescue operations to protect lives and property.

According to the weather department, the low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to strengthen on Sunday while moving west-northwestwards. It is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm over the central parts of the southeast Bay of Bengal by Monday evening.

The department has indicated the possibility of further intensification after the system reaches cyclonic storm strength. Its forecast points to the potential development of a severe cyclonic storm as the weather system gathers strength over the sea.

The forecast describes a developing system, with its strengthening expected to occur in stages over Sunday and Monday. The possibility of a severe cyclonic storm relates to further intensification after the cyclone forms, rather than the system’s present condition. The forecast does not specify a landfall location or timing.

It also does not indicate the extent of any coastal impact from the anticipated cyclone. The immediate advisories concern rainfall over parts of Tamil Nadu and strong winds over the southwest Bay of Bengal.

In Tamil Nadu, moderate rainfall is likely on Sunday and Monday in districts adjoining the Western Ghats and across the southern parts of the state. Chennai could receive light rainfall on Sunday, the regional weather centre said. The rainfall outlook covers the next two days, while the warning for strong winds over the southwest Bay of Bengal extends until Wednesday (November 18).

Fishermen already at sea have been instructed to return to the coast in view of the expected conditions. The Coast Guard’s announcement of readiness comes as the department forecasts further strengthening of the system.

Ships and aircraft have been kept prepared to undertake rescue operations should the need arise. The maritime preparations accompany the warning to fishing communities as the low-pressure system moves towards the forecast cyclonic stage.