Cyclone Remal alert: Heavy rainfall predicted in Northeast region

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• May 25, 2024 | Guriya Khatun

IMD has issued warnings for adverse weather conditions on May 26th, with severe rainfall predicted for Tripura along with thunderstorms, lightning, and wind speeds between 40-50 kmph.

Digital Desk: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Agartala has issued a severe cyclone warning for the northeastern region of India and coastal areas of Bangladesh. Cyclone Remal is anticipated to make landfall in Bengal on Sunday.

The expected landfall of the cyclone is forecasted to take place in West Bengal and the coastal regions of Bangladesh around midnight on May 26th. The cyclone is expected to bring extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds.

A low-pressure area, initially observed on May 22nd in the Bay of Bengal, has intensified into a depressive system, now situated in the central Bay of Bengal. IMD predicts that this system will further intensify into a cyclone and move towards northeastern India by the morning of May 25th.

The primary regions affected are West Bengal, Coastal Bangladesh, Tripura, and some other parts of the northeastern states. Residents in these areas, as well as in the neighboring state of Tripura, are urged to prepare for adverse weather conditions starting from May 26th.

Tripura regions are expected to experience severe rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, with speeds ranging from 40-50 kmph and gusts reaching up to 70 kmph at peak times.

IMD has issued warnings for adverse weather conditions on May 26th, with severe rainfall predicted for Tripura along with thunderstorms, lightning, and wind speeds between 40-50 kmph. The severe weather is expected to persist with continued heavy to very heavy rainfall across Tripura for the following two days after May 26th.

Partha Roy, the Director of IMD Agartala, stated, "We have a cyclone prediction for May 26th, 27th, & 28th. The low-pressure area observed on May 22nd in the Bay of Bengal has intensified and is now more depressive. It will further intensify into a cyclone and move towards northeastern India on the morning of May 25th. The landfall area of the cyclone is West Bengal and the coastal region of Bangladesh, with landfall expected around midnight on May 26th."

Severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms and lightning, are expected to persist on May 27th, with heavy to severe rainfall in all parts of Tripura. The main warning issued by IMD is of squally winds, with expected gusts reaching 60-70 kmph and peaking at 70 kmph.

Observing the cyclone's movement, Roy mentioned, "The warning may be extended beyond May 28th if necessary. The impact of these severe conditions will severely affect low-lying areas, including crops. People are advised to remain indoors and avoid going outside during these warning hours."

IMD's safety advisory includes a stern warning to residents in the affected areas to stay indoors during the warning period, refrain from going outside unless absolutely necessary, and safeguard outdoor items and reinforce structures to withstand high winds.

The severe weather is expected to have a significant impact on low-lying areas, potentially causing damage to crops and infrastructure. Flooding and disruptions to daily life are likely, and residents are advised to prepare for prolonged adverse weather.

IMD continues to monitor the cyclone's progression and will provide updates as necessary. The current warning is in effect until May 28th, but it may be extended based on the situation.

IMD's alert serves as a critical reminder of the power and unpredictability of natural weather events. Preparedness and adherence to safety advisories are essential to minimize the impact of this impending cyclone on communities in northeastern India and coastal Bangladesh.