New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: ‘Cyclone Yaas’ is likely to form over the Bay of Bengal around May 25, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Wednesday. Then it is likely to move north-westwards and reach West Bengal and adjoining Odisha coasts May 26 evening. There are enough indications that by the time ‘Yaas’ reaches Odisha it will take the shape of a severe cyclonic storm. The storm is likely to make landfall anytime May 26-27.
“A low pressure area is very likely to form over north Andaman Sea and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal around May 22. It is very likely to intensify gradually into a cyclonic storm during the subsequent 72 hours. It is very likely to move north-westwards and reach West Bengal-Odisha coasts around May 26 evening,” the ‘Cyclone Warning Division’ of the IMD said.
The IMD added that the southwest monsoon is very likely to advance over south Andaman Sea and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal around May 21 in association with the likely strengthening and deepening of south-westerly winds over the region. Other atmospheric and oceanic conditions will help in formation of a low-pressure area over north Andaman Sea and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal around May 22, the IMD stated.
Local experts opined that there is a possibility of ‘Yaas’ making landfall in Odisha even though the IMD is yet to predict its path.
Former director of Bhubaneswar Met Centre, Sarat Sahu said, “As per early indications of various weather models, the cyclone will take shape by May 25. It is likely to make landfall either May 26 evening or May 27 morning.” However, the picture will be clear by May 23, once the low pressure takes shape, informed Sahu.
“The cyclonic storm would have low to medium intensity (with wind speeds between 100 to 125 kmph) and make landfall between north Odisha, West Bengal and Bangladesh,” Sahu predicted. “It may hit the coastal districts of Bhadrak, Balasore, Kendrapara, Jajpur and Mayurbhanj,” he added. Another weather expert Surendra Pasupalak said he is confident that the cyclone will move in northwest direction and is likely to make a landfall at the Sundarbans in West Bengal. He however did not rule out a landfall in Odisha keeping in mind the time frame.
Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) PK Jena reviewed the situation with officials from IMD, NDRF, ODRAF and district administrations of coastal Odisha districts. “It is at a very premature stage. No prediction has been made on the intensity, path, landfall and other status of the system. If at all the cyclone takes shape, it may reach Odisha and West the Bengal coast around May 26 evening,” Jena said.
The district collectors and SPs of costal area have been asked to take all necessary advance precautions for the possible cyclone, Jena added.