Cyclone threat: Odisha on high alert as IMD predicts heavy rain, 100 km/h winds in coastal districts

Bhubaneswar: A low-pressure area currently over the Strait of Malacca and adjoining South Andaman Sea is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm over the southeast Bay of Bengal within 48 hours, potentially impacting coastal districts of Odisha with rain from November 25 to 27, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Odisha’s Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, stated that the state government is on high alert and has made advance preparations to manage any situation arising from the possible cyclone. He emphasised that the government machinery is equipped to handle the system even if intensified further.

The weather system is presently about 1,000 km from the mainland, with clearer details on its path and impact expected by November 24. Some coastal districts may experience the effects of this system during the upcoming three days.

Meteorological models indicate the system may further strengthen into a depression by November 24 and intensify into a cyclonic storm by November 26 to 27. Wind speeds in the Bay of Bengal could rise to 100 km/h by November 27, with significant rainfall likely in the south Odisha coastal regions.

Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into rough seas, and concerns mount among farmers as the paddy harvesting season coincides with the forecasted rains.

With inputs from PTI