Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm “Mocha” Expected to Make Landfall in Bangladesh and Myanmar
The storm, pronounced as "Mokha," has been moving northeastwards at a speed of 8 kmph over the past six hours
The Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm “Mocha” over the Eastcentral Bay of Bengal is intensifying and expected to make landfall between Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh and Kyaukpyu in Myanmar, close to Sittwe, on May 14th, 2023. The storm, pronounced as “Mokha,” has been moving northeastwards at a speed of 8 kmph over the past six hours.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, has categorized “Mocha” as an Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm, with maximum sustained wind speeds of 150-160 kmph, gusting to 175 kmph. The storm is expected to maintain this intensity as it approaches the coasts of southeast Bangladesh and north Myanmar. Heavy rainfall, ranging from moderate to very heavy, is forecasted for various regions, including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Tripura, Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur, and south Assam, from May 13th to 14th.
The IMD has issued warnings for the affected areas. Squally winds, reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph, gusting to 70 kmph, are expected in Tripura, Mizoram, and south Manipur on May 14th. Fishermen, ships, boats, and trawlers have been advised not to venture into the affected regions until the specified dates. The sea conditions are predicted to be very rough to phenomenal in different parts of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea.
The cyclonic disturbance is anticipated to cause damage to vulnerable structures, kutcha roads, and crops in Mizoram, Tripura, and south Manipur. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures, such as harvesting mature fruits and crops, providing support to nurseries and orchards, and keeping livestock indoors. Marine operations, offshore activities, and tourism near the affected regions are likely to be impacted due to rough sea conditions.
Authorities and disaster management agencies are closely monitoring the progress of Cyclonic Storm “Mocha” and providing regular updates. People in the potentially affected areas are urged to stay informed about the weather conditions and follow the instructions and guidelines issued by local authorities to ensure their safety.
