The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a critical warning as Severe Cyclonic Storm 'Mocha' continues to intensify over the southeast Bay of Bengal. The weather system is rapidly gaining strength and is expected to evolve into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm within the next 24 hours.
Current Status and Projected Path
According to the latest IMD bulletin, Cyclone Mocha is currently centered over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining south Andaman Sea. The system is moving northwestwards at a speed of 13 kmph and is likely to continue this trajectory before gradually recurving north-northeastwards towards the Bangladesh-Myanmar coasts.
The cyclone is forecast to make landfall between Cox's Bazar (Bangladesh) and Kyaukpyu (Myanmar) around the afternoon of May 14th, with maximum sustained wind speeds potentially reaching 150-160 kmph, gusting to 175 kmph.
Expected Impact and Warning Signals
The IMD has highlighted several critical threats associated with Cyclone Mocha:
- Storm Surge: Coastal areas may experience storm surges of 1.5-2 meters that could inundate low-lying regions
- Heavy Rainfall: Extremely heavy rainfall is predicted over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with widespread precipitation across northeastern states
- High Velocity Winds: Wind speeds are expected to increase significantly as the cyclone approaches the coast
- Sea Conditions: Rough to phenomenal sea conditions are forecast over central and adjacent south Bay of Bengal
Precautionary Measures and Safety Advisory
Fishermen and coastal communities have been advised to exercise extreme caution. The IMD has recommended that fishing operations should be suspended until the cyclone passes. Residents in vulnerable areas should follow evacuation orders from local authorities and move to safer locations.
"The intensity and path of Cyclone Mocha are being closely monitored," stated an IMD official. "We urge everyone in the affected regions to stay updated with the latest weather bulletins and follow safety guidelines."
Emergency response teams have been put on high alert, and disaster management authorities are coordinating relief efforts in anticipation of the cyclone's impact.
