The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into Cyclone Aquana by November 16 and a severe cyclonic storm by November 18, prompting authorities to advise deep-sea fishermen to return to shore by November 15 and remain off the sea until November 19.
The forecast was reported by the Chennai Meteorological Centre and attributed to the India Meteorological Department. The system is expected to strengthen gradually, but the Meteorological Centre has not yet issued an official announcement on which state’s coast it may approach or where it could make landfall.
The uncertainty over the storm’s eventual track means coastal districts remain under a developing weather threat rather than a confirmed landfall warning. The available forecast indicates the possibility of rain in parts of western Tamil Nadu and northern coastal Tamil Nadu until November 20.
The advisory has an immediate operational impact on fishing communities. Deep-sea fishermen have been asked to return before November 15, while all fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until November 19. The restrictions are intended to reduce exposure as the weather system strengthens over the Bay of Bengal.
The Chennai Meteorological Centre has forecast moderate rain at one or two locations in Tenkasi, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari districts on November 17 and 18. Rain is also expected in Madurai, Virudhunagar, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari districts on November 20.
The forecast places both the coastal belt and southern districts on the preparedness map, although the report does not specify rainfall totals, wind speeds or district-wise warnings. The next key update will be the Meteorological Department’s assessment of Aquana’s movement and any official guidance on a potential coastal approach or landfall.
