A cyclonic storm named 'Midhili' is projected to reach the Bangladesh coast near Khepupara either tonight or in the early hours of Saturday, as per the Indian Meteorological Department's latest forecast.
While the cyclonic storm is not expected to cause severe damage to India's coastal states, the IMD has issued warnings of heavy rainfall in coastal districts of Odisha, West Bengal, and the North Eastern states on Friday. Throughout the cyclonic storm's trajectory across the Bay of Bengal, the weather forecasting agency has cautioned fishermen against venturing out to sea. Here are the top five updates on Cyclone Midhili:
Cyclone Midhili's Development: The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a cyclonic storm 'Midhili' on Friday morning, as confirmed by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). In its bulletin, the IMD stated, "Deep Depression over NW Bay of Bengal intensified into a cyclonic storm 'Midhili' (pronounced as 'Midhili'). It lay centered at 0530 hrs IST of 17th Nov over Northwest BoB about 190 km east of Paradip (Odisha), 200 km south-southeast of Digha (West Bengal), and 220 km southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh)."
Origin of Name 'Midhili': The name 'Midhili' was assigned by the Maldives. This cyclone will impact the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal cyclones. The nomenclature of cyclones originating in these areas is adopted by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and member countries of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission (ESCAP).
Expected Impact and Precautions: Coastal regions of West Bengal, Odisha, and North East states are anticipated to receive heavy rainfall on Friday. The Purba Medinipur district administration in West Bengal has issued an alert regarding the approaching cyclone Midhili. Enhanced vigilance has also been arranged in Digha, a popular coastal resort town in West Bengal frequented by tourists.
Precautionary Measures by IMD: Despite expectations of limited severe damage to India's coastal states, the IMD has cautioned about heavy rainfall in specific districts. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea until further notice.
Cyclone Midhili's Regional Impact: As it advances towards the Bangladesh coast, authorities are closely monitoring the trajectory and potential impact of Cyclone Midhili, focusing on evacuation plans and emergency preparedness measures.
Stay tuned for further updates as Cyclone Midhili progresses towards the Bangladesh coast, while precautionary measures and alerts continue in affected regions.
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