IMD Issues Hourly Update on Cyclonic Storm “Remal”
India Meteorological Department (IMD) has released its latest hourly update on Cyclonic Storm “Remal” at 1950 HRS IST on May 26, 2024.
As of the observation made at 1830 HRS IST, the Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal” continues its northward movement over the North Bay of Bengal. It is currently centered near latitude 21.15°N and longitude 89.2°E, approximately 125 km east-southeast of Sagar Islands (West Bengal). The storm is also positioned 140 km southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh), 135 km south-southeast of Canning (West Bengal), and 155 km south-southwest of Mongla (Bangladesh).
IMD reports that the outer cloud band of the cyclonic storm covers coastal areas of Bangladesh and West Bengal. The onset of the landfall process is expected within the next few hours.
The current intensity near the center is recorded at 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph. Notable rainfall measurements since 0830 HRS IST include Digha with 43 mm and Haldia with 33 mm.
Forecast projections indicate that “Remal” will maintain its northward trajectory and is likely to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara, close to the southwest of Mongla (Bangladesh) by midnight of May 26, 2024, as a severe cyclonic storm with maximum sustained wind speeds of 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph.
Additionally, IMD forecasts gale wind speeds reaching 90-100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph along and off Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts, as well as the adjoining North Odisha coasts, likely intensifying to 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph within the next two hours.
The Kolkata radar imagery at 1830 HRS IST on May 26, 2024, provides crucial visual insights into the evolving cyclonic situation in the region.