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

A Low Pressure Area has formed over the east Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining central parts of the south Bay of Bengal under the influence of an upper air cyclonic circulation, weather officials said on Tuesday.

According to the latest meteorological bulletin, the system formed at 8:30 AM IST on February 16. It is likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify further, becoming more marked over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean around February 18.

In view of the developing system and the possibility of squally winds and rough sea conditions, fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea in specified areas between February 16 and February 21.

As per the advisory:

On February 16, fishermen should avoid some parts of the southwest and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean.

On February 17, the warning extends to some parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, along and off the south Sri Lanka coast.

On February 18, many parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, along and off the Sri Lanka coast, are likely to experience adverse weather conditions.

On February 19, rough conditions 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 Comorin area.

On February 20, the warning covers many parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining east Equatorial Indian Ocean, along and off the Sri Lanka coast, including the Gulf of Mannar and Comorin area.

Also Read: Low pressure likely over South Bay of Bengal; Fishermen advised not to venture into sea till February 20

Authorities have advised fishermen currently out at sea in the affected regions to return to the coast at the earliest. Coastal residents and maritime operators have also been asked to remain alert and follow updates issued by weather agencies.

Meteorological departments are closely monitoring the system and are expected to issue further updates depending on its movement and intensity in the coming days.