IMD Confirms Depression Over Bay of Bengal, Potential Cyclone Ditwah Forms

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has officially confirmed the intensification of a well-marked low-pressure area into a depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal, adjoining southeast Sri Lanka, and the Equatorial Indian Ocean, as of 11:30 p.m. on November 26. Centered approximately 170 km east of Hambantota and 210 km south-southeast of Batticaloa in Sri Lanka, the system marks the early stages of what could become the severe cyclonic storm Ditwah, prompting heightened vigilance along vulnerable coastal stretches.

Meteorological forecasts indicate the depression will further deepen into a deep depression within the next 12 hours, by midday Thursday, while tracking north-northwestwards across the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjacent Sri Lankan waters. Over the ensuing 48 hours, the system is projected to maintain this trajectory, advancing towards the coasts of north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh, where it holds the potential to evolve into a full-fledged cyclonic storm bearing the name Ditwah.

Anticipated impacts encompass widespread rainfall across southern peninsular India, escalating wind velocities, and turbulent sea conditions that could disrupt maritime activities and coastal communities. Authorities have emphasized the risks of heavy downpours and gusty winds, particularly in the aforementioned regions, underscoring the need for preemptive evacuations and fortified infrastructure to mitigate potential disruptions to daily life and economic operations.

Also Read: IMD Issues Rare Alert on Two Potential Cyclones Approaching Indian Coast

In tandem with this emerging threat, the IMD is monitoring the concurrent cyclonic storm Senyar, which has receded from the Bay of Bengal and is now positioned over northeast Indonesia and the adjoining Strait of Malacca. This dual-system scenario highlights the active phase of the cyclone season, with comprehensive advisories disseminated to fishing vessels and port authorities to avoid hazardous zones until further notice.

As preparations intensify, state governments in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh have activated emergency response mechanisms, including the stockpiling of relief supplies and the mobilization of disaster management teams. The IMD's continuous tracking ensures timely updates, reflecting a proactive stance to safeguard lives and property amid the unpredictable dynamics of tropical weather systems.

Also Read: IMD Warns of Cyclone Senyar Formation; South India Braces for Heavy Rains