The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is closely tracking a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal, which is forecast to intensify into a cyclonic storm named Senyar around November 26. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are already experiencing the initial effects, with warnings of heavy to very heavy rainfall issued for the region.
Formation and Expected Intensification
According to the latest IMD bulletin, a low-pressure area that was over the south Andaman Sea has now moved into the southeast Bay of Bengal. This system is predicted to develop into a depression in the coming days before strengthening into cyclonic storm 'Senyar' on November 26. The Met office has highlighted that while the cyclone's precise track and peak intensity are still under assessment, the immediate threat is to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Immediate Impact and Warnings
The archipelago is bracing for significant weather disruption starting from November 23. The IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall, measuring between 105mm and 204mm within a 24-hour period, lashing the islands until Tuesday. The Nicobar Islands are expected to bear the brunt on November 24 and 25 as the system passes close by.
Wind speeds are also set to increase, with forecasts of 35-45 km/hr gusting to 55 km/hr until Sunday. These winds are expected to intensify further, reaching speeds of around 65 km/hr on November 25, leading to very rough sea conditions.
Precautionary Measures and Restrictions
In response to the dangerous conditions, authorities have imposed strict restrictions on maritime activity. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Andaman Sea and the southwest Bay of Bengal until November 25. This restriction has been extended for the southeast Bay of Bengal until November 28.
Local authorities in the coastal and low-lying areas of the islands are on high alert, closely monitoring rainfall trends. Residents have been urged to stay informed by following the daily weather bulletins issued by the IMD for the latest updates on wind patterns and sea conditions.
The Naming of Cyclone Senyar
The name 'Senyar', which means "lion", was contributed by the United Arab Emirates. It is part of a pre-approved rotational list maintained by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the UN ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones for naming storms in the North Indian Ocean region.
