As temperatures continue to soar across the country following a period of continuous rains earlier this month, a mild heatwave has gripped over 58 districts, with the potential to spread further in the coming days.
The Department of Meteorology has issued a two-day heatwave warning or ‘heat alert’ in response to the escalating temperatures. Meanwhile, meteorologists have raised concerns about a potential cyclonic formation in the South Bay of Bengal after May 20, with the risk of down pressure in the sea that could intensify into a cyclone.
Meteorologist Dr. Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallick warned of the likelihood of a cyclone forming in the South Bay of Bengal after the 21st, based on observations from various cyclone models. While the trajectory and intensity of the potential cyclone, named Remal, remain uncertain, comparisons have been drawn to past cyclonic events such as Cyclone Amphan in May 2020 and Cyclone Aila in 2009.
Four years ago, Cyclone Amphan made landfall on the 20th of May, wreaking havoc along the coast of Bangladesh. However, the Sundarbans acted as a natural barrier, mitigating some of the cyclone’s impact. Meteorologists have cautioned that Remal could pose a similar threat as Amphan and Aila, though its ultimate intensity is yet to be determined.
According to forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Office, the cyclone is expected to form in the South Bay of Bengal on May 20, tracking northwards before potentially intensifying into a cyclone by May 24. By the evening of May 25, the cyclone may approach the coastlines of West Bengal or Bangladesh, raising concerns for both regions.
As the nation braces for the dual challenges of rising temperatures and the looming threat of a cyclone, authorities and communities are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to minimize risks and ensure public safety.
Edited by Dr. Brijendra Kumar Mishra (DRR Expert)