Cyclone Likely to Form Over Bay of Bengal on November 16, Odisha Braces for Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds

Odisha is likely to witness heavy rainfall and strong winds as a low-pressure system over the southeast Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm in the coming days. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system is gradually moving northwestwards and may intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours.

The system is likely to move north-northwestwards and develop into a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the evening of November 16.

As per the IMD forecast, the potential cyclone may initially bring wind speeds of 60-70 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 80 kmph. By November 18, the system is expected to intensify further and may develop into a severe cyclonic storm. If it reaches this intensity, wind speeds could increase to 85-95 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 105 kmph.

Cyclone Landfall Location Yet to Be Identified

The IMD has not yet indicated where the potential cyclone may make landfall. According to the latest forecast bulletin, the system’s projected track remains over the sea. The weather department has not issued any specific prediction regarding its landfall location along the coast.

Rainfall Likely in Odisha from November 18

Odisha is likely to experience rainfall from November 18, with wet weather conditions expected to continue until November 20.

On November 19 and 20, several parts of the state may experience thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. Wind speeds during this period could reach 50-60 kmph, with gusts of up to 70 kmph.

Orange Alert for Several Districts

The IMD has issued an orange warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall in three districts on November 19. These include:

• Gajapati
• Ganjam
• Puri

Similarly, an orange warning has been issued for eight districts for November 20. These are Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh.

Sea Conditions to Remain Rough

Sea conditions are expected to deteriorate from November 17. The coastal waters along southern Odisha are likely to remain rough until November 21.

In view of the anticipated weather conditions, fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea from November 17 onwards.

The IMD is closely monitoring the movement and intensification of the low-pressure system. Further updates regarding the cyclone’s intensity, movement and possible landfall location are expected in subsequent weather bulletins.