The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are on high alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone warning for a rapidly intensifying weather system in the Bay of Bengal, now named Cyclone Senyar. The deep depression is expected to strengthen into a cyclonic storm in the next 12-24 hours, bringing torrential rains and high-velocity winds to the union territory.
NextMinuteNews is tracking the storm’s path and providing every key development. Here are the latest live updates.
Key Highlights: Cyclone Senyar Alert (Updated 10:30 AM IST)
- IMD Alert: An “Orange” alert is active for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, signalling authorities to be prepared for severe weather.
- Location & Path: The system is currently over the southeast Bay of Bengal, moving north-westwards towards the islands.
- Wind Speed: Expected to intensify into a Cyclonic Storm with wind speeds of 70-80 kmph, gusting up to 90 kmph.
- Major Threats: Extremely heavy rainfall, high waves of 3-5 meters, and a storm surge of up to 1 meter are predicted.
- Actions Taken: Tourism and fishing activities have been suspended; NDRF teams are on standby.
Cyclone Senyar: Latest IMD Weather Bulletin
The India Meteorological Department’s latest bulletin provides critical details about Cyclone Senyar‘s expected impact:
- Intensity and Track: The system is currently centered over the southeast Bay of Bengal and is projected to move in a north-westerly direction, intensifying further as it approaches the Andaman and Nicobar coastline.
- Heavy Rainfall Warning: The IMD forecasts extremely heavy rainfall for isolated areas across the Nicobar Islands today and tomorrow. Heavy to very heavy spells are also expected over the Andaman Islands, which could trigger localised flooding and waterlogging in low-lying regions.
- High-Wave and Storm Surge Alert: A primary concern is the dangerous sea conditions. The IMD has warned of high waves, potentially reaching 3-5 meters along the coast. A storm surge of approximately 1 meter above the astronomical tide is likely to inundate coastal parts of the Nicobar Islands.
Andaman & Nicobar Administration on High Alert
The local administration is taking comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of residents and tourists. Following an emergency preparedness meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary, disaster management protocols have been fully activated.
“NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams have been put on standby, and we have issued strict instructions to suspend all tourism and fishing activities immediately,” a senior official from the A&N Disaster Management Secretariat confirmed.
In line with the warning, ferry services connecting Port Blair with Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep) have been suspended until further notice. District control rooms are now operational 24/7 to manage the developing situation.
Safety Advisory: Precautions for Tourists and Residents
Authorities have issued a stringent set of advisories:
- Warning for Fishermen: All fishing operations in the southeast Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea should be suspended for the next 72 hours. Fishermen already at sea are instructed to return to the coast immediately.
- Stay Indoors and Seek Shelter: Residents in coastal and low-lying areas are urged to relocate to safer locations or designated cyclone shelters. All individuals are advised to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Keep a kit ready with essentials such as drinking water, non-perishable food items, batteries, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
- Stay Informed: Follow the latest weather forecasts from official IMD channels and credible local news sources. Avoid spreading or relying on unverified rumours.
The next 48 hours are crucial as Cyclone Senyar‘s trajectory and final intensity become clearer.
Emergency Helpline Numbers:
* State Emergency Operation Centre: 03192-238880
* District Emergency Operation Centre: 03192-238881
Stay tuned to this page for more LIVE updates.
