As Cyclone Remal looms on the horizon, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings and advisories for several states along the eastern coast of India. Predicted to make landfall between the coasts of Bangladesh and West Bengal around midnight on May 26, this cyclonic disturbance poses potential risks to various regions. With the IMD forecasting its formation from a depression over the Bay of Bengal, concerns have escalated regarding its intensity and impact. Amidst the preparations and assessments, residents and authorities in West Bengal, Odisha, and northeastern states brace themselves for anticipated heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential damage to coastal areas.
Cyclone Remal Landfall Prediction
IMD predicts Cyclone Remal to hit between Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts around midnight on May 26.
Cyclone Formation Update
IMD suggests the “depression” over the Bay of Bengal may develop into a cyclonic storm by May 25 morning, possibly intensifying into a “severe cyclonic storm.”
Name and Meaning
Upon formation, the cyclone will be named Remal (Meaning ‘sand’ in Arabic), suggested by Oman.
Landfall Details
IMD scientist Dr. Somenath Dutta forecasts Cyclone Remal’s landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh at midnight on May 26.
Impact Assessment in India
Immediate impacts are expected in coastal districts of West Bengal including Dakshin (South), 24 Pargana, Purba Medinipur, Howrah, Hoogli, Kolkata, and Nadia.
Election Implications
Assurance that the cyclone formation won’t disrupt Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal on May 25, though rainfall may affect some regions.
Rain Alerts and Warnings
West Bengal
– Heavy to very heavy rainfall expected, particularly in coastal districts.
– Coastal areas likely to experience extremely heavy rainfall on May 26.
– Heavy showers may continue on May 27 and 28.
Odisha
– Anticipated heavy rainfall in North Coastal Odisha on May 25 and 26.
North East
– Light to moderate rainfall, with heavy to very heavy rainfall, may occur in parts of Mizoram, Tripura, and South Manipur on May 26.
– Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura may experience heavy rainfall on May 27 and 28.
– Extremely heavy rainfall likely over Assam and Meghalaya on May 27 and 28, Arunachal Pradesh on May 28, and Mizoram and Tripura on May 27.
Storm Surge Prediction
IMD forecasts a storm surge of about one meter above astronomical tide, potentially inundating low-lying areas of coastal West Bengal and Bangladesh at landfall.
Expected Damage Areas
Damage expected in South and North 24 Parganas districts of West Bengal, including tree uprooting, power and communication line damage, traffic disruption, reduced visibility, inundation, flooding, and crop and house damage.
IMD Advisory
1. Suspend all fishing operations.
2. Regulate surface transport and shipping operations.
3. Follow guidelines for onshore and offshore operations.
4. Coastal hutment dwellers should relocate to safer places.
5. Residents in affected areas advised to remain indoors.
6. Avoid areas prone to water logging.
7. Refrain from staying in vulnerable structures.
Fishermen Advisory
Fishermen cautioned against venturing into specific sea regions until designated dates due to rough sea conditions.
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