India Meteorological Department (IMD) is closely monitoring the possible formation of a low pressure system over south Andaman sea and adjoining Bay of Bengal in the month of May, and its possible intensification into a cyclone.
IMD DG Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said, "Usually whenever any low pressure forms in Bay of Bengal in the month of May, there is possibility of its intensification. So far, IMD has not made any prediction regarding its projected path and its intensity."
Mohapatra informed that the low pressure system is likely to form over south Andaman sea and adjoining Bay of Bengal around May 6.
“When the low pressure forms, IMD will issue necessary forecast regarding its path and intensity,” said Mohapatra.
When asked about prediction by several agencies that the cyclone may move towards Andhra Pradesh, IMD DG said, “Cyclones mostly occur during two seasons- pre-monsoon season (March, April, May and June) and after withdrawal of monsoon (October, November, December). Usually, the frequency of cyclones is more in May and during November. Cyclone in the month of May cannot be ruled out and hence, we are constantly monitoring the development."
Mohapatra further said an accurate prediction about any cyclone can be made after the formation of low pressure.