Cyclone Remal set to hit Bengal, likely to impact Odisha and other eastern states

According to a report released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is very likely to continue to move north-northeastward and intensify into a cyclonic storm over east-central Bay of Bengal by May 25.

“It would move nearly northward and intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by the 25th night. It is very likely to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara around midnight on May 26 as a severe cyclonic storm,” said IMD.

This pre-monsoon season, this is the first storm to hit the Bay of Bengal.

According to the IMD forecast, heavy to extreme rainfall is expected in the districts of South and North 24 Parganas, East Medinipur, Kolkata, Howrah, and Hooghly in West Bengal. Northeast India may get extremely heavy rains on May 27 and 28. Paschim Medinipur, Purba Bardhaman, and Nadia districts are expected to experience heavy rainfall on May 26 and 27.

“The cyclone is expected to cause mild to moderate rain and thunderstorms in both north and south Odisha on May 25. Mizoram, Tripura, and South Manipur are also expected to see light to moderate rainfall on May 26, while Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura are likely to see it on May 27 and 28,” said IMD.

The meteorological department predicts wind speeds of up to 100 to 120 km/h. Fishermen have been advised not to venture out into the sea until May 26.

IMD suggested a complete suspension of fishing operations. Regulation of shipping operations and surface transportation is necessary. Regulation of both onshore and offshore operations must follow specific guidelines. Coastal residents should be in safer areas. People in affected regions should stay inside. Use the Damini or Mausam apps to get real-time weather alerts. Avoid encountering water bodies and hiding behind trees or electrical poles.