The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a significant weather alert on Thursday, confirming the formation of a cyclonic storm named 'Ditwah' over the Bay of Bengal near Sri Lanka. While the system poses a potential threat to southern Indian states, authorities have indicated there is currently no immediate danger to Odisha.
Storm Trajectory and Current Status
According to the latest bulletin from the IMD, the cyclonic storm is situated approximately 670 km south-southeast of Chennai. Meteorological models predict that the storm is likely to intensify and move in a north-northwesterly direction. Its projected path will take it across the Southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining Sri Lanka coast.
The weather system is expected to advance towards the Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coast by November 30. Residents in these regions are advised to stay updated with the latest information from official sources.
Odisha's Weather Outlook
Commenting on the potential impact on Odisha, Sanjeev Dwivedi, a scientist at the IMD centre in Bhubaneswar, provided a measure of reassurance. He stated that a clearer picture regarding the storm's influence on the state would emerge within the next day or two.
At present, weather models are indicating predominantly dry conditions for Odisha. However, the state is expected to experience a drop in minimum temperatures. The mercury is likely to fall by two to three degrees Celsius over the next 48 hours, before rising again thereafter.
Preparedness and Further Updates
The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely. The formation of Cyclone Ditwah underscores the need for coastal communities to remain vigilant as the storm develops and moves closer to the Indian mainland. The department will issue regular updates, and the public is urged to rely on these official bulletins for accurate information.
