The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal shows signs of intensifying. According to IMD officials, the system may strengthen further from November 21, potentially developing into a cyclonic storm named ‘Senyar’.
Rainfall & Weather Forecast
The weather department has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall (7–20 cm) in parts of Nicobar Islands and heavy rainfall (7–11 cm) in Andaman Islands over the next few days. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph and lightning are expected on November 24 and 25.
Additionally, squally winds with speeds of 35–45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, are likely over the Andaman Sea, making sea conditions dangerous.
What is ‘Senyar’?
If the system intensifies into a cyclone, it will be named ‘Senyar’, a name meaning “lion,” submitted by the United Arab Emirates. The name comes from the pre-approved cyclone naming list maintained by the WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones.
This follows the naming pattern used earlier for Cyclone Montha, which impacted Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.
Warnings for Fishermen, Tourists & Local Administration
With sea conditions expected to be rough, fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the Andaman Sea till November 23. Port Blair Port has hoisted Local Cautionary Signal No. 3, indicating worsening maritime conditions.
Authorities have also urged tourists, boat owners, and local residents to exercise extreme caution due to the possibility of high waves and turbulent waters. Recreational sea activities have been advised to operate with heightened vigilance.
The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) may reschedule or suspend inter-island and mainland vessel services depending on the weather. A DSS official confirmed that cancellations may occur at short notice, emphasizing passenger safety as their top priority.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
