A low-pressure area persisting over the Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal continues to remain active, but is expected to gradually weaken over the next 24 hours as it moves west-northwestwards towards Sri Lanka, according to the latest update from the India Meteorological Department.
Meteorologists said the system was observed over the same region at 8:30 AM IST on February 19 and is currently influencing weather over adjoining oceanic and coastal zones. Even as this system loses strength, atmospheric conditions indicate the likely formation of another low-pressure area shortly.
New Low-Pressure Area Expected to Develop
Weather officials have reported that an upper-air cyclonic circulation has formed over the Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal, extending up to the middle tropospheric levels. Under its influence, a fresh low-pressure area is likely to develop within the next 24 hours over the same broad region.
This upcoming system is also projected to move west-northwestwards and may impact weather patterns over southern parts of the country and nearby maritime regions.
In addition, a trough at lower tropospheric levels currently stretches from the cyclonic circulation linked to the existing low-pressure system up to the Lakshadweep region. This trough is expected to enhance moisture flow and convective activity over peninsular India, increasing the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms in select areas.
Heavy Rainfall Alerts for Island and Southern Regions
Under the combined impact of the weakening system and the emerging circulation, multiple regions are expected to witness unstable weather over the next few days.
Heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for:
-
Andaman and Nicobar Islands — Heavy rainfall likely at isolated places on February 19
-
Tamil Nadu — Heavy rainfall likely at isolated locations on February 21 and 22
-
Kerala and Mahe — Heavy rainfall likely at isolated locations on February 21 and 22
Thunderstorm and Gusty Wind Forecast
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds are also expected in some regions:
-
Uttarakhand and Andaman & Nicobar Islands — Light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph on February 19
-
Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Mahe — Similar thunderstorm and wind conditions likely on February 21 and 22
Weather agencies said they are closely monitoring the evolving systems and will issue updated advisories as the situation develops. Fishermen and coastal residents in vulnerable zones are advised to follow official bulletins and exercise caution.
