Low-pressure area over Equatorial Indian Ocean; fishermen advised to avoid sea till Feb 22

A low-pressure area that formed over the east Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining central parts of the south Bay of Bengal has moved slowly west-northwestwards slowly, according to the latest meteorological update. As of 8:30 AM IST on February 17, 2026, the system was located over the Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal.

The associated upper air cyclonic circulation extends up to 5.8 kilometres above mean sea level. Weather officials have stated that the system is likely to continue moving west-northwestwards and may intensify further, becoming more marked over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean around February 18, 2026.

In view of the developing weather system, fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea in the affected regions between February 17 and February 22, 2026.

Areas to Avoid:

February 17:
Fishermen are advised to stay away from many parts of the southwest and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal, as well as the adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean. Sea conditions are also expected to be rough along and off the Sri Lankan coast.

February 18:
Adverse conditions are likely to prevail over many parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, including areas along and off the Sri Lanka coast.

February 19:
Rough seas are expected over many parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, along and off the Sri Lanka coast, and over some parts of the Gulf of Mannar and the Comorin area.

February 20:
Sea conditions are likely to remain unfavorable over many parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, along and off the Sri Lanka coast, and across the Gulf of Mannar and the Comorin area.

February 21:
Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing along and off the Sri Lanka coast and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal, as well as over the Gulf of Mannar and the Comorin area.

Also Read: Low pressure forms over East Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining BoB: IMD

Authorities are closely monitoring the system and have urged coastal communities and those engaged in fishing activities to strictly follow the advisories issued by meteorological agencies to ensure safety at sea.