Minister of Earth Sciences, Kiren Rijiju, has issued a stern warning regarding the intensifying threat posed by Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal” in the Bay of Bengal. In a recent bulletin, designated as National Bulletin No. 14, Rijiju highlighted the alarming trajectory and potential impact of the cyclone on the coastal regions of West Bengal and Bangladesh.
According to Rijiju, as of 0830 hrs IST on the 26th of May, 2024, the Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal” has been tracked moving nearly northwards over the North Bay of Bengal. The storm has been reported to have a speed of 07 kmph over the past 06 hours and is currently centered near latitude 19.8°N and longitude 89.3°E. The storm is approximately 260 km south-southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh), 310 km south of Mongla (Bangladesh), 240 km south-southeast of Sagar Islands (West Bengal), and 280 km south-southeast of Canning (West Bengal).
Rijiju emphasized that the cyclone is exhibiting maximum sustained wind speeds ranging between 90-100 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 110 kmph around the cyclone center. The Minister cautioned that the situation is likely to escalate further as the cyclone continues its northward trajectory.
The Minister warned of the potential impacts of the cyclone, projecting it to make landfall as a Severe Cyclonic Storm with maximum sustained wind speeds of 110-120 kmph, accompanied by gusts reaching up to 135 kmph. Such severe weather conditions pose significant risks to coastal communities, including the potential for widespread damage to infrastructure, disruption of essential services, and threats to human lives.
In light of these developments, Rijiju urged residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and adhere to precautionary measures prescribed by local authorities. He stressed the importance of heeding evacuation orders and taking necessary precautions to ensure personal safety and minimize potential harm.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences, in collaboration with relevant agencies and authorities, continues to monitor the situation closely and provide timely updates and advisories to safeguard the well-being of communities at risk. Rijiju reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the resilience and preparedness of coastal regions in the face of natural disasters, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts to mitigate the impact of severe weather events like Cyclone “Remal.”
As the cyclone progresses, it is imperative for residents in the affected regions to stay informed through official channels and take proactive measures to safeguard themselves and their communities from the impending threat posed by Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal.”
