Cyclone ‘Hamoon’
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a dire warning as cyclonic storm ‘Hamoon’ intensifies into a severe cyclonic storm over the Northwest Bay of Bengal. This development has set alarm bells ringing across the region, as ‘Hamoon’ is now projected to make landfall on the Bangladesh coast between Khepupara and Chittagong around noon on October 25, 2023, albeit as a deep depression.
Imminent Impact on the Northeastern States
“Cyclone ‘Hamoon’ The northeastern states of India, including Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, and Meghalaya, as well as south Assam, are bracing for the brunt of ‘Hamoon.’ IMD’s forecasts indicate that these regions will experience light to moderate rainfall, with heavy rainfall anticipated in Mizoram on October 24. Tripura, in particular, is expected to face even more substantial downpours.
As per the weather forecast, South Assam and eastern Meghalaya are also expected to experience light to moderate rainfall on October 24-25, with the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall in south Assam. As “Cyclone ‘Hamoon’ inches closer to the coast, the IMD’s predictions underscore the urgency of preparedness in these regions.
“Cyclone ‘Hamoon’ Deep Depression Looms Over Bay of Bengal
The IMD has closely monitored the progress of “Cyclone ‘Hamoon’ from a deep depression in the West-central Bay of Bengal. It is highly likely to intensify into a Cyclonic Storm in the coming hours. The projected path indicates a north-northeastward movement, with a landfall forecasted between Khepupara and Chittagong on the evening of October 25. While the “Cyclone ‘Hamoon’ may weaken into a deep depression by then, the potential for adverse weather conditions remains significant.
Challenges for Mariners and Harvesters
IMD has cautioned against venturing out to sea, as it predicts rough sea conditions. Fishermen have been advised to stay away from the sea until at least 25th October for the Westcentral Bay of Bengal and 26th October for the north Bay of Bengal. The cyclone’s erratic nature necessitates caution, especially for those whose livelihoods depend on the sea.
Uma Shankar Das, Senior Scientist at IMD Bhubaneswar, provided insights on the “Cyclone ‘Hamoon’ movement, saying, “Yesterday’s deep depression that has moved with a speed of 13 km/hour in the Northeast direction, it is very likely to intensify into a very cyclonic storm in the next 6 hours. Sea conditions will be rough to very rough till this evening, and from tomorrow the sea condition will be very rough to high.”
Das emphasized the importance of safety measures, considering the ongoing paddy harvesting season. “It is the time of paddy harvesting, so those people who are harvesting are advised to complete it fast and keep it in a safe place.”
Government’s Preemptive Measures
The Odisha government has already swung into action, instructing officials from various departments to prepare for any impending eventualities. Evacuation plans are in place, focusing on safeguarding residents in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas.
Conclusion: A Region on High Alert
As “Cyclone ‘Hamoon’ looms ominously on the horizon, the northeastern states and Bangladesh find themselves on high alert. The IMD’s warnings and forecasts underscore the need for immediate action to mitigate the potential impacts of this severe cyclonic storm. For residents, fishermen, and farmers, it’s a race against time to prepare and stay safe amidst the turbulence of nature’s fury. The coming days will be a test of resilience and readiness in the face of a formidable adversary.
