A developing weather system over the eastern Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify, with a low-pressure area likely to form within the next 48 hours, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The evolving system could lead to unsettled weather and rough sea conditions across parts of the south Bay of Bengal and nearby waters.
The IMD said an upper air cyclonic circulation has been persisting over the region and extends up to about 5.8 km above mean sea level. Observations recorded on the morning of February 15 indicate strengthening atmospheric conditions favourable for the formation of a low-pressure system over the central south Bay of Bengal and adjoining Equatorial Indian Ocean.
Meteorologists have indicated that under the influence of this circulation, wind patterns and sea state are expected to deteriorate gradually, increasing the likelihood of squally weather and hazardous marine conditions in the coming days.
Multi-Day Marine Advisory Issued
In response to the likely intensification of the system, the weather agency has issued a multi-day advisory for fishermen, urging them not to venture into vulnerable sea zones between February 15 and February 20.
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February 15: Advisory for parts of the southeast and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean.
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February 16: Warning extended to several areas of the southwest and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal and nearby equatorial waters.
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February 17–18: Fishermen cautioned against entering parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, especially along and off the south Sri Lanka coast.
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February 19: Advisory expanded to include the southwest Bay of Bengal near the south Sri Lanka coast, the Gulf of Mannar and the adjoining Comorin region.
Authorities are continuing to track the system closely through satellite and oceanic observations. Updated forecasts and warnings are expected as the low-pressure area takes shape and its movement becomes clearer.
