The Department of Meteorology has issued a red warning for strong winds and rough seas in the Bay of Bengal, following the intensification of a deep depression into cyclonic storm ‘Arnab’.
According to the warning issued at 9.30 a.m. today (26), the deep depression over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm.
The system was located near latitude 15.4°N and longitude 88.9°E at 5.30 a.m. today, after moving westwards.
The Met Department stated that the cyclonic storm is very likely to move nearly west-northwestwards and intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by tonight (26).
It is expected to develop into a very severe cyclonic storm over the same region tomorrow (27).
Wind speeds in the affected sea areas could increase to between 80 and 100 kmph at times, while heavy thundershowers are also expected.
The Department warned that wave heights could increase to approximately 3 to 4 metres, making sea conditions very rough.
Accordingly, naval and fishing communities have been strongly advised not to venture into sea areas bounded by latitudes 10°N to 20°N and longitudes 80°E to 95°E until further notice.
Those already operating in the affected sea areas have been advised to move away from the region.
The Met Department has also urged naval and fishing communities to remain vigilant and closely follow future weather forecasts and warnings.
The red warning remains valid for 12 hours from 9.30 a.m. today (26). (Newswire)
