Deep depression over Bay of Bengal likely to intensify into severe cyclone by Oct 28

The Meteorology Department has warned that a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and is likely to develop into a severe cyclonic storm by October 28.

Currently located about 720 km northeast of Trincomalee, the system is moving west-northwest at 10 kmph. It is expected to further intensify over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal in the next 24 hours before potentially crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast as a severe cyclonic storm.

Naval and fishing communities have been advised to avoid deep sea areas between 5°N–15°N and 80°E–95°E, as well as shallow coastal waters from Kankasanthurai to Batticaloa via Trincomalee. Those operating off Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota are urged to remain vigilant.