New Delhi, Oct 18 (Representative) A cyclonic storm is likely to form over the west-central Bay of Bengal after October 22, the IMD predicted on Tuesday. Regional meteorological department sources here said a Low-Pressure area is likely to form over South East and adjoining East central Bay of Bengal during the next 48 hours. It is likely to move west- northwestwards and concentrate into a depression by October 22 morning over the Central Bay of Bengal. The system will intensify further into a Cyclonic Storm over the West-central Bay of Bengal subsequently. Under the influence of the anticipated low-pressure system, squally weather with surface wind speed reaching 45 to 55 kmph gusting to 65kmph is likely over west central adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into deep sea areas of west-central adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal from October 22 morning onwards till further notice.
According to the Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management department, the government is keeping a strict vigil on the situation. It said the direction and the intensity of the possible cyclonic storm are not yet known. A clear picture, however, will emerge in the next two to three days. Odisha Special Relief Commissioner P K Jena during the day held discussions with various departments and the district administration of the Coastal district about the possible cyclonic storm and the measures to be taken. As a precautionary measure, the SRC has advised the officers concerned not to leave their headquarters till further notice.