The Mocha cyclone is likely to cause heavy rains till May 12 in Andaman and Nicobar islands. As per the Indian Meteorological Department (MeT) the cyclonic circulation in the Bay of Bengal which intensified into a deep depression near Port Blair will likely turn into a full blown cyclone by Wednesday evening, reported news agency PTI. The MeT department also said that the cyclone is likely to make landfall between Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh and Kyaukpyu in Myanmar on Sunday.
As per a statement issued by GK Das, Director (Weather) at Regional Meteorological Centre, Kolkata, the deep depression will gradually intensify into a severe cyclonic storm on May 11.
“On May 12, it will turn into a very severe cyclonic storm over the southeast and adjoining areas of central Bay of Bengal," it said, as per the report.
The cyclone will weaken from May 13 and pass between the coasts of Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh and Kyaukpyu in Myanmar (Rakhine State) around forenoon of May 14 with maximum sustained wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph, as per the statement.
Fishermen Advised Not To Venture Into Sea Till May 13
In view of the weather predictions, fishermen in Andaman and Nicobar islands have been advised not to venture into the sea till May 13, the report stated.
A notification was also issued by the Directorate of Shipping Services in Port Blair which said, “ "It has been informed that Foreshore Sector and Harbour/Vehicle ferry services at Port Blair and out stations may get disrupted/suspended in short notice depending upon the weather condition. Therefore, the passengers, daily commuters and tourists have been advised to plan their journey suitably to avoid any inconvenience."
Passengers and tourists can also get update/status of the vessels from the Information Counter at Phoenix Bay by dialling phone number 03192 – 245555/232714, Toll Free Number 18003452714, it added.