Cyclone Montha Likely to Hit Odisha

A new low-pressure area has developed over the Southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining South Andaman Sea. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system formed at 5:30 AM on Friday and is currently moving west-northwest at a speed of 3 km/h. The system is expected to intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours.

Likely Development Into a Cyclone

The low-pressure area is forecasted to strengthen into a deep depression by October 26. By the morning of October 27, it may further intensify into a cyclonic storm over the central-western Bay of Bengal. IMD officials noted that although the system is currently far from the coast, it has a high potential to develop into a cyclone.

Cyclone Name Highlight: “Montha”

If the system intensifies into a cyclonic storm, it will be officially named “Montha”, a name proposed by Thailand. In Thai, “Montha” means “fragrant flower” or “beautiful flower”, symbolizing delicacy, beauty, and nature’s fragrance.

Naming cyclones is crucial to ensure timely communication of warnings to ships, fishermen, and coastal communities, avoiding confusion that may arise from numeric codes.

The list of cyclone names is maintained alphabetically and suggested by 13 countries including Bangladesh, India, Iran, Maldives, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UAE, and Yemen. Once a cyclone name is used, it is retired and cannot be reused. Montha is currently the second name on the list proposed by Thailand.

Expected Impact on Odisha

Heavy rainfall is expected in Odisha from October 27 to 29 due to the potential cyclone. Coastal districts and southern Odisha are likely to receive particularly strong rainfall.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea from October 26 to 29. Orange and yellow warnings have been issued for vulnerable districts, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and take safety precautions.

Precautions include staying away from lightning-prone areas, avoiding rough seas, and identifying safe shelters in advance.

Sea Conditions and Wind Forecast

The sea is expected to remain rough from October 26 to 29. Wind speeds may range between 35–60 km/h, with gusts possibly reaching 70 km/h.

According to IMD’s Windir forecast, the system is likely to follow this development path:

• Oct 25: Depression

• Oct 26: Deep Depression

• Oct 27 (morning): Cyclonic Storm (Montha)

Currently, the system is moving slowly north-northwest at 3 km/h. The Bay of Bengal shows favorable conditions for cyclonic development. While heavy rainfall is expected, wind threats are predicted to be moderate. The exact landfall location of Cyclone Montha has not been determined yet.