IMD issues cyclone alert for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, heavy rainfall expected

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone alert for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands following the formation of a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, officials said on Monday. The system is expected to intensify from 21 October.

Authorities have issued local port warnings in anticipation of heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions, likely to persist until 23 October. According to officials, heavy rain ranging from 7 to 11 cm is expected at isolated locations in the Nicobar Islands.

Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of 40-50 kmph and lightning are likely to affect one or two places across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from 21 to 23 October. Similar conditions are expected to continue on 24 and 25 October.

Squally weather with surface wind speeds of 35-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, is predicted over the Andaman Sea between 22 and 23 October. The IMD has warned that sea conditions will remain rough over the next five days and advised fishermen not to venture into waters along or off the Andaman Sea and the Andaman and Nicobar coasts until 24 October.

The administration has cautioned boat owners, island residents, and tourists to exercise extreme vigilance due to the possibility of high waves. Recreational activities at sea should be conducted with caution, and the public has been urged to adhere strictly to safety guidelines issued by local authorities.

With PTI inputs