| 09 June 2023
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning about the intensification of the very severe cyclonic storm 'Biparjoy' over the east-central Arabian Sea. The storm, which has already caused concern with its movement towards the north, is expected to further strengthen over the next 36 hours. With its trajectory set to continue in a north-northwest direction, coastal regions of India are urged to remain vigilant.
As of 11:30 pm on June 8, cyclone 'Biparjoy' was centered approximately 840 km west-southwest of Goa, 870 km west-southwest of Mumbai, 870 km south-southwest of Porbandar, and 1150 km off the coast of Karachi. The storm has already exhibited wind speeds of 40-50 km per hour and is anticipated to reach up to 60 km per hour along the Karnataka-Goa-Maharashtra coasts. These coastal areas are likely to experience rough sea conditions as a result.
The IMD has also highlighted the potential for very rough sea conditions in the adjoining areas of the south Arabian Sea over the next five days. Recognizing the significance of this weather event, authorities have taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of maritime activities. Fishermen in Gujarat's coastal Porbandar district have been advised to return from deep sea areas, while ports have been instructed to hoist the Distant Warning signal (DW II).
The IMD's emphasis on signaling adverse weather conditions to vessels is in line with international procedures. By raising "signals," ports aim to alert maritime operators and mitigate risks associated with unfavorable oceanic weather patterns.
While concerns regarding the cyclone remain high in India, Pakistan's weather forecasting agency has reassured that none of its coastal areas are currently under threat. However, it cautioned about the phenomenal sea conditions surrounding the center of the system, reporting maximum wave heights of 25-29 feet.
Looking ahead, the IMD has provided a forecast of sea conditions for the upcoming days:
June 9: The sea condition is expected to be phenomenal over the east-central Arabian Sea and the adjoining areas of the west-central Arabian Sea. Very rough to rough sea conditions are likely along the adjoining areas of the south Arabian Sea and the Karnataka-Goa-Maharashtra coasts.
June 10: The sea condition is anticipated to be phenomenal over the central Arabian Sea, with rough to very rough conditions prevailing in the adjoining areas of the north Arabian Sea and rough conditions along the Goa-Maharashtra coasts.
June 11 and June 12: The sea condition is predicted to be phenomenal to very high over the central and adjoining north Arabian Sea, while rough to very rough conditions are expected along the Maharashtra-Gujarat coasts.
June 13: The sea condition is projected to be phenomenal to very high over the north and adjoining central Arabian Sea. Rough to very rough conditions are likely to persist along the Maharashtra-Gujarat coasts.
With the intensification of cyclone 'Biparjoy' and the anticipation of adverse sea conditions, it is crucial for residents, fishermen, and maritime operators along the western coast of India to closely monitor weather updates and follow the instructions provided by local authorities. Preparedness and caution are paramount in ensuring the safety of individuals and minimizing potential damage caused by the approaching storm.
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