Cyclone Ramal Hits West Bengal, Bangladesh with Heavy Rain and Winds

Cyclone Ramal, a severe cyclonic storm, has made landfall in the coastal areas of West Bengal and Bangladesh, bringing heavy rains and intense winds.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone, previously a severe cyclonic storm over coastal Bangladesh and coastal West Bengal, has weakened into a cyclonic storm. As of 5:30 AM IST, Cyclone Ramal was centered approximately 150 km northeast of Sagar Islands in West Bengal, 110 km northwest of Khepupara in Bangladesh, 70 km northeast of Canning in West Bengal, and 30 km west-southwest of Mongla in Bangladesh.

The weather department says the storm will likely move north-northeast and then northeast, gradually weakening. After the storm, India and Bangladesh were hit by strong winds and heavy rainfall. The storm left millions without power as power poles were toppled. One person died in Kolkata after being struck by a piece of concrete during the cyclone.

Heavy rain warning due to cyclone

Due to cyclonic storm Ramal, the Meteorological Department has warned of light to moderate rainfall in most coastal districts of West Bengal and eastern districts of Gangetic West Bengal adjoining Bangladesh today, with heavy to very heavy rains expected in some areas. The maximum rainfall activity is anticipated by the afternoon of May 27.

On May 27 and 28, there will be light to moderate rainfall in most parts of the eastern districts of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, with heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas.

The storm will impact the northeastern states, with light to moderate rains expected in most parts of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura on May 27 and 28, and heavy to very heavy rains in some regions.

Heavy rainfall, over 20 cm, is expected in isolated parts of Assam and Meghalaya on May 27 and 28, Arunachal Pradesh on May 28, and Mizoram and Tripura on May 27.

Stormy winds and warnings

The Meteorological Department reported stormy winds in the northern Bay of Bengal at 80 to 90 kmph, gusting up to 100 kmph. By May 27 afternoon, the winds are expected to decrease to 60 to 70 kmph, gusting up to 80 kmph, and by the evening, their speed is anticipated to reduce to 45 to 55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph.

Due to the storm, fishermen have been warned to stay away from the sea. The Meteorological Department predicts that the stormy winds blowing at 70-80 kmph in the central Bay of Bengal will intensify to 90 kmph by noon today. In the morning, the speed of these winds is expected to increase from 50-60 kmph, gusting up to 70 kmph.

The Meteorological Department has issued warnings of heavy rainfall in coastal districts of West Bengal and eastern districts of Gangetic West Bengal adjoining Bangladesh, with the maximum rainfall activity expected by the afternoon of May 27. Additionally, the storm is expected to impact northeastern states, with heavy rainfall and strong winds predicted in various regions.

Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea due to stormy conditions, with winds of up to 90 kmph expected in certain areas. The Meteorological Department has also highlighted the potential damage that the cyclone's effects may cause to residential structures, agriculture, and infrastructure, urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.

As Cyclone Ramal continues its path of destruction, authorities are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact and provide assistance to affected communities. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and follow safety guidelines to ensure their well-being during this challenging time.

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