Cyclone threat looms over Bay of Bengal, Odisha likely to witness heavy rainfall

Bhubaneswar, Nov 13: A low-pressure system has formed over the Bay of Bengal and is likely to intensify into a well-marked low-pressure area by November 14 and a depression by the morning of November 15. It may further intensify into a cyclonic storm by the evening of November 16, according to the latest weather forecast.

The system is expected to move towards the north and northwest. However, its exact track and the coastline it may approach remain uncertain. Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre Director Manorama Mohanty said a clearer picture of its movement would emerge after it develops into a depression.

Under its influence, weather conditions across Odisha are likely to remain mostly dry between November 13 and 17.

However, rainfall activity is expected to increase from November 18. Coastal Odisha, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar may receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph.

Heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in Kendrapada and Jagatsinghpur districts on November 18.

On November 19, several parts of coastal and interior Odisha may experience rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds. Puri, Ganjam, Gajapati and Rayagada districts may receive heavy rainfall at isolated locations.

Meanwhile, stormy weather conditions is likely along the southern Odisha coast on November 17, with wind speeds reaching 45-55 kmph and gusts up to 65 kmph. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea.

Regarding temperatures, no significant change in night temperatures is expected across Odisha over the next five days. However, minimum temperatures may rise by 1-2 degrees Celsius from November 18.