The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 23, 2024. The storm could affect coastal areas in Odisha and West Bengal, with heavy rainfall expected from Wednesday onwards.
While the exact location of the landfall is still unclear, weather models suggest that the storm may hit near Puri, Odisha. The IMD has warned that the system could develop into a severe cyclonic storm as it moves west-north-westwards, impacting both states.
IMD Director-General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra has predicted that parts of Odisha will experience significant rainfall, with certain areas potentially receiving up to 30 cm of rainfall between October 24 and 25. A red alert has been issued for several districts, including Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Jagatsinghpur, where extremely heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected.
The cyclone is expected to intensify into a depression by October 22 and a full-fledged cyclonic storm by October 23. Authorities and residents in the affected areas are being advised to prepare for severe weather conditions in the coming days.
