IMD issues cyclone alert over Bay of Bengal, heavy rain likely in Andaman

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, which is likely to intensify from November 21, an official said on Thursday.

Heavy to very heavy rains (07-20 cm) are likely to occur in one or two places on Nicobar Island; Heavy rains (07-11 cm) are also expected in Andaman Island.

“It is also very likely that strong winds (40-50 kilometers per hour) and lightning storms will occur at one or two places over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on November 24 and 25,” the official said.

Stormy weather is very likely to occur over the Andaman Sea, with surface wind speed reaching 35-45 km/hr and gusts reaching 55 km/hr.

“The sea situation is also likely to be challenging. Fishermen have been advised not to enter the Andaman Sea until November 23. We have issued Local Alert Signal-3 at Port Blair Port,” the official said.

Due to the possibility of rising waves, the administration advised boat owners, islanders and tourists to use their boats carefully and carry out recreational activities carefully.

Fishermen have been advised not to swim along and off the North Andaman Sea. “There are swell waves, the use of boats with utmost care, and opportunities to rest carefully,” he said.

Tourists and the public were advised not to swim and were asked to comply with all safety rules issued by the local government.

Meanwhile, in light of the weather advisory issued by IMD, it is stated that the Directorate of Maritime Services (DSS) will most likely reschedule the voyages of inter-island ships.

“The general public and tourists have been informed that due to the prevailing inclement weather conditions, we may have to suspend or cancel cruises in the mainland/Inter-Island/shore-to-shore sectors at very short notice. The safety of passengers and vessels is our top priority,” a senior DSS official said.

Port or vehicle ferry services in Chatham, Bambooflat, Dundas Point, Hopetown and Phoenix Bay may also face disruption or suspension at short notice depending on weather conditions, the official said.