In a developing weather situation, Cyclone Michaung approaches Bay of Bengal, bringing concerns to the Indian and Odisha coastlines. This article combines information from two sources to provide a comprehensive overview of the cyclone’s formation, path, and potential impact on the region.
Cyclone Michaung’s Formation and Trajectory
Cyclone Michaung is currently brewing in the Bay of Bengal, emerging from a low-pressure area initially spotted in the South Andaman Sea. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is expected to progress in a west-northwest direction, intensifying into a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal by November 30. Within the next 48 hours, it is likely to evolve into a cyclonic storm named ‘Michaung.’
Impact on Islands and Coastal Regions
As Cyclone Michaung approaches Bay of Bengal, the Nicobar Islands are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall between November 29 and December 1. In the Andaman Islands, rainfall is predicted, with isolated instances of very heavy precipitation on November 30.
Strong winds will sweep across the South Andaman Sea, with speeds reaching 25-35 kmph, gusting to 45 kmph on November 29. Squally weather with wind speeds ranging from 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph is forecasted in the southeast Bay of Bengal on November 30, increasing to 50-60 kmph gusting to 70 kmph on December 1. The gale wind speeds could reach 60-70 kmph gusting to 80 kmph on December 2.
Fishermen have been strongly advised to stay clear of the South Andaman Sea on November 29 and 30. Additionally, the IMD cautions against venturing into the southeast Bay of Bengal from November 30 to December 2. Similar warnings extend to the southwest Bay of Bengal on November 30 and December 2, as well as the central Bay of Bengal from December 1 morning onward.
Preparedness in Odisha
The Odisha government has issued alerts in seven coastal districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam. Special Relief Commissioner Satyabrata Sahoo’s letter to the collectors mentioned that the low-pressure area over the South Andaman Sea could intensify into a depression and later into a cyclonic storm. This proactive measure aims to ensure the safety of residents in vulnerable areas.
Rainfall Predictions Across India
Apart from the immediate impact on coastal regions, rainfall is expected in various parts of India. Scattered to fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall, along with isolated thunderstorm activity, is anticipated in northern regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad during November 29-30. Similar conditions are expected in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand on November 30, with a decrease thereafter.
In central and western regions, Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha are likely to experience light to moderate scattered rainfall with thunderstorm activity at isolated places.
In southern India, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & Karaikal, and Kerala & Mahe should expect light to moderate scattered to fairly widespread rainfall, along with thunderstorm activity at isolated places.
Conclusion
Cyclone Michaung’s formation in the Bay of Bengal brings concerns for coastal regions, particularly in India and Odisha. With its uncertain trajectory and potential to intensify, authorities and residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow the guidance provided by the India Meteorological Department to ensure safety in the face of this developing weather system.