A low pressure area has formed over the east Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining central parts of the south Bay of Bengal under the influence of an upper air cyclonic circulation, according to the latest bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system was observed at 8:30 AM IST on February 16 and is expected to strengthen further over the next two days.
Weather officials said the system is likely to move west-northwestwards and gradually intensify, becoming more marked over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean around February 18. The development could lead to squally winds, rough sea conditions and unsettled weather across several marine zones.
Sea Conditions Likely to Turn Rough
Due to the evolving weather system, authorities have issued a marine advisory warning of deteriorating sea conditions across large parts of the Bay of Bengal region. Strong winds and high waves are likely to pose risks to fishing and small vessel operations over the coming days.
Maritime agencies have urged fishermen and marine operators to strictly follow the advisory and avoid venturing into vulnerable sea zones during the warning period.
Area-Wise Fishermen Advisory (Feb 16–21)
As per the official advisory:
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February 16: Fishermen should avoid parts of the southwest and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean.
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February 17: Warning extends to parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, along and off the south coast of Sri Lanka.
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February 18: Adverse weather likely over many parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, including areas along and off the Sri Lanka coast.
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February 19: Rough conditions expected across many parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal, adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka coastal waters, and parts of the Gulf of Mannar and Comorin area.
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February 20: Warning continues for large areas of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, including the Gulf of Mannar and Comorin region.
Fishermen currently at sea in the affected zones have been advised to return to the coast at the earliest and avoid deep-sea operations until conditions improve.
Monitoring Underway, Further Updates Expected
Weather authorities said the system is under continuous surveillance and further forecasts will be issued based on its movement and intensification pattern. Coastal residents, port authorities and shipping operators have been asked to stay alert and monitor official updates.
Disaster management agencies are also expected to coordinate with local administrations if the system strengthens further and begins to influence coastal weather.
