Cyclone Remal

1. Cyclone Remal is expected to become severe before Sunday night’s landfall between West Bengal and Bangladesh.
2. The storm will significantly impact West Bengal, coastal Bangladesh, Tripura, and parts of northeastern India.
3. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential storm surges are anticipated in these regions.

Weather Update, May 26: Cyclone Remal, a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal that has intensified into a cyclonic storm, is expected to become severe before making landfall between the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh on Sunday night, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

This severe weather event is anticipated to bring significant impacts to several regions, including West Bengal, coastal Bangladesh, Tripura, and parts of the northeastern states of India.

The IMD reports that Cyclone Remal is projected to cross the West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara.

The storm is expected to make landfall with wind speeds ranging from 110 to 120 kmph, gusting up to 135 kmph, around midnight on Sunday.

The authorities have issued warnings of heavy rainfall and strong winds that could affect life and property in these areas.

Also Read: Arunachal Releases Health Advisory: Guidelines to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

Here are the latest updates on Cyclone Remal:

  1. Formation and Path:
    • Cyclone Remal originated from a low-pressure system over the southwest and west-central Bay of Bengal. The IMD has been closely monitoring the cyclone’s progression and strength.
  2. Forecast and Warnings:
    • The IMD has forecast that the cyclone will continue to gain strength, bringing threats of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges. Current warnings for the cyclone are in effect until May 28, but they may be extended if necessary.
    • Extremely heavy rainfall is expected in the coastal districts of West Bengal, with heavy to very heavy rainfall predicted for north Odisha on May 26 and 27. Additionally, Assam and Meghalaya are likely to experience extremely heavy precipitation, with heavy to very heavy rains forecasted for other northeastern states, such as Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, on May 27 and 28.
  3. Local Advisories:
    • The weather department in Agartala has issued ‘orange’ alerts for Tripura from May 26 to 28, warning of thunderstorms with lightning and squally winds reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph, gusting to 70 kmph, along with heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across all districts of the state.
    • People are advised to stay indoors and avoid going outside during the warning hours.
  4. Disaster Preparedness:
    • National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are fully prepared for the cyclone. Inspector Zaheer Abbas of NDRF stated that their teams are well-equipped to handle tree-falling incidents, flood rescues, and other disaster scenarios.
  5. Transport and Airport Operations:
    • The Kolkata airport has announced the suspension of flight operations for 21 hours starting Sunday, due to predicted heavy winds and heavy to very heavy rainfall. Operations will be halted from 12:00 IST on May 26 to 09:00 IST on May 27.
    • Several local trains in the Sealdah and Howrah divisions, which connect Kolkata and Howrah with nearby districts, have been cancelled. The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata will also suspend all cargo and container handling operations for 12 hours from Sunday evening.
  6. Evacuations:
    • West Bengal officials began evacuating people from coastal, low-lying, and vulnerable areas on Saturday. The evacuations aim to ensure the safety of residents in the cyclone’s path.
  7. Historical Context:
    • Cyclone Remal is the first cyclone in the Bay of Bengal in this pre-monsoon season. The name ‘Remal’ means ‘sand’ in Arabic and follows the naming system for cyclones in the Indian Ocean region.

The IMD’s comprehensive advisory includes crucial dos and don’ts to prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure public safety. These guidelines emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and taking precautions for vulnerable populations.

Residents are urged to drink sufficient water, carry drinking water while traveling, and use Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) or homemade beverages like lemonade and fruit juice. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are recommended for maintaining hydration and nutrient levels. To stay covered, thin, loose cotton garments, preferably light-colored, are advised. When outside, using an umbrella or hat and wearing shoes or chappals can protect against the sun.

Vulnerable populations, including infants, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, individuals with mental illness, those with heart disease or high blood pressure, and the elderly or sick living alone, require special attention during extreme heat.

Activities to avoid include unnecessary sun exposure, strenuous daytime activities, consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, and high-sugar drinks, and leaving children, pets, and elderly individuals in parked vehicles. Stale food should also be avoided to prevent foodborne illnesses.

By following these guidelines, the authorities aim to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme heat and protect the community’s health amidst the severe weather conditions brought by Cyclone Remal.