Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal” Approaching Coastal Regions: IMD Issues Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe cyclonic storm alert as “Remal” advances towards coastal areas. As of the latest update issued at 1900 HRS IST on May 26, 2024, the cyclonic storm has been tracked moving nearly northwards over the North Bay of Bengal with a speed of 16 kmph.
At 1730 HRS IST, “Remal” was observed centered near latitude 21.1°N and longitude 89.2°E, approximately 130 km east-southeast of Sagar Islands (West Bengal). It also positions 140 km southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh), 140 km south-southeast of Canning (West Bengal), and 160 km south-southwest of Mongla (Bangladesh).
According to IMD observations, the current intensity near the center is recorded at 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph. Significant wind speeds have been reported, with Canning experiencing winds at 38 kmph and Digha at 50 kmph. Rainfall measurements since 0830 HRS IST indicate Digha with 38 mm and Haldia with 31 mm.
Forecast projections suggest that “Remal” is likely to maintain its northward trajectory and make landfall between Sagar Island and Khepupara, close to the southwest of Mongla (Bangladesh) by midnight on May 26, 2024. The storm is expected to retain its severe cyclonic status with maximum sustained wind speeds of 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph.
Imminent weather conditions are expected to prevail, with gale wind speeds reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph over the central Bay of Bengal, gradually decreasing to squally wind speeds by the morning of May 27. Along the Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts, wind speeds are anticipated to intensify, reaching 110-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph within the next few hours.
Heavy rainfall warnings have been issued, indicating the likelihood of light to moderate rainfall with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places. Coastal districts of West Bengal and eastern districts of Gangetic West Bengal are expected to experience significant rainfall from May 26 to May 27, with some areas possibly witnessing extremely heavy rainfall.
Additionally, IMD forecasts a storm surge of about 1 meter height above astronomical tide along coastal West Bengal and 3-4 meters above astronomical tide along coastal Bangladesh around the time of landfall.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay updated with the latest weather bulletins and take necessary precautions as “Remal” approaches the coastline.
