Cyclone threat to Odisha? Low pressure area over BoB likely by Oct 21, may intensify: IMD
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the potential formation of a low pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 21.
The system is expected to move in a west-northwest direction and could intensify into a depression over central and adjoining west-central parts of the Bay within the following 48 hours, informed IMD scientist Uma Shankar Das.
It is worth noting that during October, the atmospheric conditions over the Bay of Bengal are usually conducive to cyclogenesis, raising the possibility that the low pressure area may strengthen into a depression.
While the trajectory is currently projected west-northwest, the system will either approach the eastern coast of India or continue towards Bangladesh. However, the IMD, as of the last reports, has not issued anything related to the formation of a deep depression or cyclone.
Rainfall Forecast for Odisha
Ahead of the low pressure formation, Odisha is likely to experience a shift in weather from October 19, as per the IMD’s forecast issued yesterday, raising the possibility of rainfall during Diwali.
After a brief dry spell, isolated rain and thunderstorms are expected in southern and coastal districts, including Malkangiri, Rayagada, Koraput, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Ganjam, and Gajapati. These conditions are anticipated to persist through October 20 and 21, with lightning and gusty surface winds of up to 30–40 kmph in the affected areas.
ALSO READ: Odisha declares 2-day holiday for Diwali; leaves cancelled on 4th Saturday
Yellow Alerts and Precautions
The IMD has issued Yellow alerts for eight districts over the next two days, advising residents and local authorities to be cautious of thunderstorms and sudden gusts of wind.
Southern Odisha districts like Malkangiri and adjacent coastal areas are expected to bear the brunt of the isolated rainfall, while the rest of the state is likely to remain largely dry during this period.
News