Cyclone Mocha Gains Strength, IMD Issues Warnings 6 States

Bhubaneswar: Cyclonic Storm Mocha has intensified into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm, prompting the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue warnings to six states. The storm is currently located over Central and adjoining Southeast Bay of Bengal, approximately 520 km west-northwest of Port Blair, and is expected to bring heavy rain and high winds to the region.

According to IMD, Cyclone Mocha is forecast to cross southeast Bangladesh and north Myanmar coasts between Cox’s Bazar and Kyaukpyu, close to Sittwe, around Sunday noon. The storm is moving at a speed of 9 kmph and is expected to gain maximum sustained wind speeds of 150-160 kmph gusting to 175 kmph.

The affected regions are likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated places in Tripura and Mizoram and widespread rainfall in Nagaland, Manipur, and south Assam on Sunday. As a precautionary measure, fishermen, ships, boats, and trawlers have been advised not to venture into the central Bay of Bengal and the north Andaman Sea until May 14, and the northeast Bay of Bengal between May 12-14.

Authorities have urged people in the six states to take necessary precautions and follow safety measures to minimize the risks associated with the storm. Stay tuned for further updates on Cyclone Mocha.