Bhubaneswar: As a low-pressure area looms over the South Andaman Sea, at least seven coastal districts in Odisha have been placed on high alert, anticipating its intensification into a cyclone named Michaung by December 2. Proposed by Myanmar, this marks the fourth tropical storm in the Bay of Bengal and the sixth in Indian seas this year.
In response to the potential threat, Special Relief Commissioner Satyabrata Sahoo has issued a warning to collectors of Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts. The commissioner’s letter emphasizes the need for preparedness and proactive measures in light of the developing weather system.
Fishermen have been strongly advised against venturing into the sea from the morning of December 1. Sahoo’s letter underscores the importance of discouraging fishing activities during this period and urges those already at sea to return by the specified date. The directive has also been communicated to the state Fisheries and Animal Resources Department.
The exact trajectory of the impending cyclone will become clearer as the low-pressure area transforms into a depression, according to HR Biswas, the Director of Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre. Anticipating the development, the letter warns of wind speeds reaching 40-50 kmph over the central Bay of Bengal from December 1, potentially increasing to 50-60 kmph on December 2.
As a precautionary measure, fishermen are instructed to stay ashore starting December 1 due to expected very rough sea conditions. Sahoo emphasizes the role of the Fisheries and Animal Resources Department in disseminating warning and alert messages to fishermen, ensuring regular communication about the return of boats and fishermen.
Moreover, residents in some areas, including Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, and Jagatsinghpur, should brace for light to moderate rains and thundershowers on December 3, according to Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre forecasts.
With authorities closely monitoring the situation, the coastal districts are taking proactive steps to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of residents in the wake of Cyclone Michaung.
