Cyclone Mocha: Deep Depression in Southeast Bay of Bengal Intensifies, Expected to Develop into Cyclonic Storm

A deep depression forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal has exhibited significant movement and development, according to the latest updates from the Indian Meteorological Department. As of May 10, the depression has moved north-northwest at a speed of 17 kmph.

The center of the deep depression was located approximately 510 km west-southwest of Port Blair, 1,320 km south-southwest of Cox’s Bazar (Bangladesh), and 1,220 km south-southwest of Sittwe (Myanmar).

Forecasts indicate that the system will continue to move in a north-northwest direction and gradually intensify, ultimately transforming into a cyclonic storm by early morning tomorrow. As it progresses further north-northwestwards, it is expected to intensify further, reaching severe cyclonic storm status by the evening of May 11 and very severe cyclonic storm status by the first half of May 12, specifically over the central Bay of Bengal.

Following this, a gradual recurvature is anticipated, with a north-northeastward movement from the morning of May 12. By May 13 evening, the system is likely to experience a slight weakening. On May 14, it is projected to make landfall between Cox’s Bazar (Bangladesh) and Kyaukpyu (Myanmar) in the morning.

The cyclonic storm is expected to have a maximum sustained wind speed of 110-120 kmph, gusting to 130 kmph at the time of landfall. The authorities concerned in southeast Bangladesh and north Myanmar have been alerted to take necessary precautions in preparation for the storm’s impact.

The Indian Meteorological Department will continue to closely monitor the progress of the deep depression and provide regular updates to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected regions.