Port Blair: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Cyclone Alert for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands after a cyclonic circulation developed over the Bay of Bengal. Officials said the system is likely to intensify from 4 November, prompting warnings for residents, fishermen, and tourists in the region.

What has the IMD reported?

A senior IMD official said that a low-pressure area began forming over the east-central Bay of Bengal and the adjoining Myanmar coast at 8:30 am on 2 November.

"The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 5.8 km above mean sea level. It is likely to move north and then northwestwards along and off the Myanmar-Bangladesh coasts during the next 48 hours," the official stated.

How will the weather be affected?

According to the department, squally weather is expected, with surface wind speeds reaching up to 55 kmph over the North Andaman Sea.

"The system is likely to intensify from November 4 onwards, and the sea conditions will remain rough," the official added.

What precautions have been advised?

In view of the cyclone alert, the local administration has urged fishermen not to venture into the sea along and off the North Andaman Sea. Boat operators, island residents, and tourists have also been advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid any recreational activities at sea until conditions improve.

PTI Inputs