The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Thursday that a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm named Cyclone Remal.
This development marks the first pre-monsoon cyclone in the Bay of Bengal this year. The cyclone is projected to reach the coasts of Bangladesh and West Bengal by Sunday evening. According to the IMD, Cyclone Remal is likely to attain wind speeds of up to 102 kilometres per hour by the time it makes landfall. The anticipated trajectory and strength of the cyclone have prompted several warnings and preparatory measures in the affected regions.
Key points regarding Cyclone Remal include:
- Wind Speed: The IMD forecasts that the cyclone will reach wind speeds of 102 kilometres per hour on Sunday.
- Rainfall Warning: Very heavy rainfall is expected in the coastal districts of West Bengal, northern Odisha, Mizoram, Tripura, and southern Manipur on May 26 and 27. Authorities have issued warnings to residents in these areas to prepare for severe weather conditions.
- Fishermen Advisory: Fishermen have been advised to return to the coast and avoid venturing into the Bay of Bengal until May 27 to ensure their safety.
The IMD has been closely monitoring the cyclone’s development and has issued a series of advisories to local authorities and the public. These advisories are part of the standard protocol to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters. The early warning system aims to reduce potential damage by ensuring that communities are adequately prepared.
The state governments of West Bengal and Odisha, along with the authorities in Bangladesh, are taking proactive measures to address the impending cyclone. These measures include evacuations in vulnerable areas, ensuring the availability of emergency supplies, and setting up relief camps to accommodate displaced individuals. Disaster management teams have been mobilised to assist with these efforts and to ensure a swift response in the aftermath of the cyclone.
The naming of Cyclone Remal follows the established system of naming cyclones in the Indian Ocean region, a practice aimed at enhancing communication and awareness about these significant weather events. Cyclone Remal’s arrival highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal, attributed to broader climatic changes. The IMD continues to monitor weather patterns closely and provides regular updates to help communities prepare and respond effectively.
As the region braces for Cyclone Remal, the collaborative efforts of meteorological agencies, government authorities, and local communities are crucial in minimising the cyclone’s impact and ensuring the safety and resilience of the affected populations.
