Cyclone Alert in Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a cyclone alert for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, warning residents and tourists of possible heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds up to 55 km/h till October 25. The developing weather system over the southeast Bay of Bengal could intensify into a depression in the coming days, leading to rough sea conditions and disruptions in transport and tourism across the archipelago.
Authorities have cautioned people against venturing into the sea and urged strict adherence to safety measures. The IMD has also directed fishermen to suspend all fishing operations and advised boat operators to remain docked until further notice.
🔗 External Sources:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD) Official Website
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- Andaman & Nicobar Administration Updates
Cyclonic Disturbance Brewing Over Bay of Bengal
Meteorological observations indicate that a low-pressure area is forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining Andaman Sea. This system is likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify during the next 48 hours. Although not yet classified as a full-fledged cyclone, the IMD has issued a “Cyclone Alert” to prepare coastal and island authorities for any escalation.
The Bay of Bengal, a hotspot for post-monsoon cyclonic activity, often spawns weather systems that later develop into tropical cyclones impacting eastern India. The IMD continues to track the system using satellite data and Doppler radar imagery.
Cyclone Alert in Andaman and Nicobar Islands: IMD Forecast and Warning Summary
The IMD bulletin issued from New Delhi provides the following key warnings:
- Thunderstorms and Lightning: Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (40–55 km/h) are likely over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands till October 25.
- Heavy Rainfall: Heavy rainfall ranging from 7 to 11 cm at isolated places, especially in Nicobar and southern Andaman districts, is expected.
- Sea Condition: Sea conditions will remain rough to very rough, with waves rising between 2 to 3 meters.
- Fishing and Boating Restrictions: Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the Andaman Sea or Bay of Bengal till October 24 due to squally winds and turbulent waters.
- Port Warnings: Local port warnings have been hoisted, and inter-island ferry services are on high alert.
🔗 For the latest IMD bulletins and cyclone tracking, visit IMD Cyclone Updates.
Impact on Residents and Tourists
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and scuba diving spots, face significant disruption under the ongoing alert. The islands’ economy, which depends largely on tourism and fisheries, is likely to be affected if weather conditions worsen.
Authorities in Port Blair have advised:
- Residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms.
- Tourists to avoid beaches, coastal trails, and sea sports.
- Ferry and boat operators to remain cautious and monitor IMD updates.
- Hoteliers and resort owners to implement emergency preparedness measures.
⚠️ For official safety guidelines, check the NDMA Cyclone Safety Page.
Administrative Readiness and Local Response
District authorities and disaster management teams in the islands have initiated proactive steps:
- Emergency shelters have been prepared in low-lying and coastal areas.
- The Indian Coast Guard has stationed rescue boats at strategic points.
- The Directorate of Shipping Services has restricted boat operations between Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), and Little Andaman.
- Airlines and shipping lines have been requested to coordinate with the Port Management Board for any operational changes due to the storm.
🔗 Track live regional alerts through the Andaman & Nicobar Disaster Management Authority (DMC).
Travel Disruptions and Tourism Advisory
The alert period coincides with the post-monsoon tourism season, when thousands of domestic and international travelers visit the islands. The administration has advised all travel agents and tour operators to reschedule or postpone snorkeling, diving, and boat excursions until conditions improve.
Travelers have been encouraged to:
- Check with their hotels and airlines for updated schedules.
- Stay updated through official weather channels.
- Carry emergency essentials and keep communication lines open.
- Avoid unofficial guides or operators offering unauthorized sea trips.
For travel advisories and flight status, check the Andaman Tourism Portal.
Possible Intensification and Future Path
The developing low-pressure system may strengthen into a depression or cyclonic storm depending on sea surface temperature and upper-air wind conditions. Meteorologists note that warm sea temperatures above 29°C in the southeast Bay of Bengal could accelerate the system’s intensification.
If the system strengthens further, it may move toward the central Bay of Bengal and potentially impact eastern coastal states like Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, or West Bengal later this month.
🔗 Follow live cyclone tracking and storm models on the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).
Historical Cyclones in the Bay of Bengal
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands have often been the first landmass to experience the impact of cyclonic systems forming in the Bay of Bengal. Some notable past events include:
- Cyclone Giri (2010) — Brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to Nicobar.
- Cyclone Bulbul (2019) — Originated near the Andaman Sea before striking coastal Bengal.
- Cyclone Mocha (2023) — Formed in a similar region and intensified rapidly.
- Cyclone Hamoon (2024) — Passed close to the Andaman Islands, causing moderate disruption.
These historical patterns show that early detection and community awareness play a crucial role in minimizing impact.
Safety Tips During Cyclone Alerts
- Keep your mobile phones charged and store emergency contacts.
- Avoid standing under trees, near electric poles, or water bodies during storms.
- Keep important documents sealed in waterproof bags.
- Follow updates from IMD, NDMA, and local administration.
- Stay indoors and move to higher ground if flooding occurs.
For a complete list of safety measures, refer to the IMD Cyclone Safety Guidelines.
Climate Perspective
Meteorologists highlight that rising sea surface temperatures in the Bay of Bengal, linked to global climate change, have increased the frequency and strength of tropical cyclones in the region. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands, due to their geographical position, often bear the brunt of such climatic changes.
Experts recommend investment in coastal infrastructure, disaster shelters, and early-warning dissemination systems to enhance community resilience.
Conclusion
The cyclone alert in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of preparedness. While the system is yet to become a named cyclone, the IMD’s forecasts highlight significant risks of thunderstorms, high tides, and strong winds through October 25.
Residents, tourists, and maritime operators are urged to remain cautious and follow updates from reliable sources. The administration continues to monitor the evolving system to ensure timely action and public safety.
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