The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather advisory following the development of a depression over the Central Bay of Bengal, which is predicted to intensify into a cyclonic storm by the morning of May 25, 2024. This storm is expected to further strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm by the night of May 26, 2024, moving northwards.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the state government have issued warnings for Tripura, effective from Saturday. The advisory highlights the likelihood of increased rainfall and gusty winds across the state from May 25 to May 28, 2024.
On May 25, a yellow alert has been issued with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph expected in all districts. The situation is anticipated to escalate on May 26, with an orange alert for South Tripura, Gomati, Dhalai, Sepahijala, and West Tripura districts due to expected gusty winds of 40-50 kmph and heavy to very heavy rainfall. The remaining districts are under a yellow alert.
The intensity will peak on May 27, with squally winds reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph and gusts up to 70 kmph. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in South Tripura, Dhalai, Sepahijala, Gomati, and West Tripura, with extremely heavy rainfall expected in the Gomati district. An orange alert has been issued for all districts.
On May 28, North Tripura, Unakoti, and Dhalai districts will experience gusty winds of 30-40 kmph and heavy to very heavy rainfall under an orange alert, while the rest of the districts remain on high alert.
In response, the central government has directed the Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary (Revenue/DM), and Relief Commissioner to ensure preparedness with essential amenities and emergency services. The state government is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the IMD for any further developments. All District Magistrates have been alerted to follow IMD’s advisories and implement necessary measures to mitigate the storm’s impact.
