Cyclone `Tauktae` forms over Arabian Sea likely to intensify by May 16: IMD

IMD issued a forecast about a low-pressure area which is forming over the Arabian Sea and warned that it may intensify into a cyclone by May 16.

New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday (May 11, 2021) issued a forecast about a low-pressure area which is forming over the Arabian Sea and warned that it may intensify into a cyclone by May 16.

The weather department stated that the low-pressure area is very likely to form over the southeast Arabian Sea around May 14 and likely to intensify gradually into a cyclonic storm over the east-central Arabian Sea around May 16, and continue to move north-northwestwards.

As per IMD, areas like Lakshadweep, the coast of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra are likely to be impacted. The name ‘Tauktae’ has been given by Myanmar and if it reaches the Indian coast, it will be India’s first cyclonic storm of this year 2021.

Further, the weather agency suggests there is also the possibility of the storm changing its course towards Kutch and South Pakistan. If it does, then coastal Gujarat will be hit by the cyclone on May 17 or 18.

Meanwhile, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani held a meeting and directed officials of coastal districts in the state to remain alert and take necessary safety measures. Officials have predicted that the possible cyclonic activity would bring thunderstorms in the coastal region of the state, including Saurashtra and south Gujarat region.

"In view of the possible cyclonic storm, which would be named as cyclone Tauktae, the chief minister gave necessary instructions to the officials," Minister of State for Home, Pradeepsinh Jadeja, told reporters in Gandhinagar.

However, there is no immediate warning that the cyclone would hit Gujarat, PTI reported.

The Coast Guard of Karnataka issued instructions to fishing boats to not venture out into the sea in the wake of forecast from IMD. The ICG Ships and CG Dornier aircrafts on patrol also relayed the weather warning to fishermen at sea to return to nearest shores.

The cyclone could adversely disrupt daily life at a time when the country is already battling a second wave of COVID-19.