The deep depression in the southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclone, now known as ‘Fenjal’. According to weather department sources, the cyclone is expected to hit the coastline of Tamil Nadu, India, by Saturday evening.
Cyclone Fenjal marks the second such storm to form in the Bay of Bengal during the post-monsoon season. The storm’s name was given by Saudi Arabia, and it follows the path of Cyclone Dena, which struck the Odisha coast in India last October.
In the latest weather advisory issued by the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, it was confirmed that as of 6 a.m. today, the cyclone was located 1,650 kilometers southwest of Chattogram port, 1,605 kilometers southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 1,505 kilometers southwest of Mongla port, and 1,515 kilometers southwest of Payra port. The cyclone is moving northwestward and is expected to cross the northern Tamil Nadu coastline by noon today.
Minimal Impact on Bangladesh’s Coastal Regions
Meteorologist Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallik, speaking to First Light this morning, explained that Cyclone Fenjal is predicted to cross the Puducherry coast of Tamil Nadu by evening. However, the storm’s impact on Bangladesh’s coastal areas is expected to be minimal. Light rainfall may occur in the southwestern and southeastern coastal districts, particularly in Khulna, Barishal, and Chattogram, while other parts of the country will experience normal weather conditions.
Cyclone’s Wind Speed and Coastal Conditions
The maximum sustained wind speed near the cyclone’s center is 62 km/h, with gusts or stormy winds potentially reaching up to 90 km/h. The sea conditions in areas near the cyclone’s center are extremely rough, with turbulent waters in the Bay of Bengal.
In response to the storm, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued a warning, directing Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra seaports to display the number 2 distant warning signal. Fishermen operating in the northern Bay of Bengal and deeper sea areas have been advised to exercise caution and remain alert. They have been instructed to stay close to the shore until further instructions are provided.
Potential for Further Development and Movement
While the immediate threat to Bangladesh appears low, the storm’s trajectory and strength will be closely monitored as it moves closer to the Indian coastline. Cyclone Fenjal’s development could influence weather patterns in the region, and the Bangladesh Meteorological Department continues to monitor its progress.
In the meantime, authorities are keeping a close watch on sea conditions and will issue further warnings as necessary, especially regarding high winds and rough seas that may affect maritime activities in the coming days. Fishermen are urged to heed safety measures to avoid potential hazards associated with the storm.
Cyclone Fenjal’s path highlights the ongoing threat of seasonal storms in the Bay of Bengal, which regularly affect coastal regions in both India and Bangladesh. Although the cyclone’s immediate impact on Bangladesh is expected to be minimal, its effects on India and surrounding areas could be more severe, particularly in the Tamil Nadu region