Odisha Not Under Cyclone Threat Yet, Says IMD; Fresh Forecast Expected After October 21

IMD Tracks Weather System Over Bay of Bengal

IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the developing system is likely to move north–northwest and strengthen into a depression within 48 hours of its formation — possibly by October 23 morning.

“There is no forecast for a cyclone or super cyclone as of now,” Mohapatra clarified. “We expect a low-pressure area to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 21, which may later intensify into a depression.”

He added that the system is expected to move toward the Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh coasts, gaining strength over the south-central Bay of Bengal.

Cyclone Activity in October Under Observation

Meteorologists have noted that October is a peak month for cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal. Satellite data from the US-based GFS model suggests that one or two cyclonic systems could develop this month.

However, IMD officials emphasized that it is too early to predict any cyclone formation with certainty.

Mohapatra said that a clearer picture will emerge after October 21, once the low-pressure system forms. For now, IMD forecasts indicate heavy rainfall and moderate winds in parts of southern India as the system moves inland.

Odisha on Alert, But No Immediate Danger

Although Odisha is not in the direct path of the developing system, the IMD confirmed that it is closely monitoring weather changes due to the state’s vulnerability to October cyclones.

The next 72 hours will be crucial in determining whether the low-pressure area intensifies or weakens over the sea.

Under the system’s influence, strong winds and rough sea conditions are expected over the southern Bay of Bengal and the northern Andaman Sea.

The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea and asked those already offshore to return before October 21.