Bhubaneswar,Sept. 17 (UDN): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has urged people not to be misled by speculation surrounding a possible cyclone in the Bay of Bengal, saying it is too early to conclude whether the developing weather system will intensify into a cyclone.
Speaking in Sambalpur after inaugurating a Doppler Weather Radar, IMD Director General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the department is continuously tracking the evolving system and expects a clearer assessment after September 19.
“There is no need to panic over cyclone rumours. We will issue accurate forecasts and warnings well in advance if required,” Dr. Mohapatra said.
What IMD is Monitoring
According to the IMD chief, a cyclonic circulation has formed near the Thailand coast and is expected to move into the North Andaman Sea by September 18. By the evening of September 19, the system is likely to consolidate into a low-pressure area over the East-Central Bay of Bengal and adjoining North Andaman Sea.
Thereafter, the weather system is expected to move northwestwards, heading towards the North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coasts.
Too Early to Call It a Cyclone
Dr. Mohapatra stressed that while weather conditions are being monitored closely, there is no official forecast yet indicating that the low-pressure area will necessarily develop into a depression or cyclone.
However, the system is expected to influence weather over Odisha, with heavy rainfall likely in several parts of the state in the coming days.
Rumours Fuelled by Global Weather Models
Discussions about a possible cyclone have intensified after several international weather models suggested conditions could become favourable for stronger development over the Bay of Bengal next week. Some independent weather observers have also shared projections on social media, contributing to public speculation.
The IMD has maintained that official forecasts will be based on continuous observations and scientific analysis, and has assured that timely advisories and warnings will be issued whenever necessary.