Cassian Baliarsingh

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted the possible formation of a cyclonic storm over the southeast Bay of Bengal around May 9. Upon its formation, the first cyclonic storm of 2023, will be named Cyclone ‘Mocha’.

Earlier, speaking to the media, IMD DG Mrutyunjay Mohapatra made it clear that no alert has been issued for the Odisha coast as of now and there’s no forecast about the likely impact of the system on the State.

Even though the IMD has clearly stated that details (path) of the probable cyclone can be given only after the formation of the low pressure or by the end of this week, speculations related to its severity and landfall, citing several weather models, are rife on social media.

So to avoid confusion and not fall prey to the rumour-mongers, revisit the details as shared by the IMD DG or the weather department so far:

IMD Predictions:

1. A cyclonic circulation is likely to develop over the Southeast Bay of Bengal around May 6.
2. Under its influence, a low-pressure area will likely form over the same region around May 7.

3. It is likely to concentrate into a depression over the Southeast Bay of Bengal on May 8. Thereafter, it is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm while moving nearly northwards towards the central Bay of Bengal.

4. The details of its path and intensification will be provided after the formation of the low-pressure area.

5. Squally weather with wind speed reaching 40-50kmph gusting to 60kmph is likely to prevail over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of the Andaman Sea from May 7 and wind speed will gradually increase.

IMD’s Advisory:

1. Fishermen, small ships, boats, and trawlers have been advised not to venture into the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas from May 7.

2. Tourists have also been advised not to venture out for offshore activities as bad weather conditions, squally weather, and heavy rainfall activity are likely over Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Preparedness in Odisha:
Odisha has geared up the preparations with personnel of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) all set to face the predicted cyclonic storm.

Meanwhile, the IMD DG has urged people not to panic but be prepared for the possible cyclone and any kind of eventuality.

Why Mocha?

The name cyclone ‘Mocha’ is recommended by Yemen and originates from the Yemeni city Mocha or Mokha located on the Red Sea Coast. 

Read More: Why Cyclone Mocha? Things to know about first probable Cyclonic Storm of 2023

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