'Montha' cyclone likely to form; IMD issues warning, calls for high alert

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is likely to receive monsoon-like rainfall, according to the latest weather forecast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that a deep depression is currently located over the east-central Arabian Sea and may move northeastward across the sea within the next 24 hours. The cyclonic circulation that existed over the north Karnataka–Kerala coastal region has now merged with this deep depression over the Arabian Sea.

Meanwhile, a cyclonic circulation that formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining south Andaman Sea has intensified into a low-pressure area over the southeast and east-central Bay of Bengal. It is likely to move west-northwestward and strengthen into a deep depression over the southeast and central Bay of Bengal by October 25. By October 26, it may further intensify into a deep depression, and by October 27 morning, it could develop into a cyclonic storm over the southwest and west-central Bay of Bengal. If the cyclone forms, it will be named “Montha”, a name suggested by Thailand.

The IMD has warned that Kerala is likely to experience moderate rainfall or thunderstorms over the next five days. There is also a chance of isolated heavy rainfall today (October 24) and from October 24 to 28 in different parts of the state.

Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) update:

Deep depression over the Arabian Sea:
A deep depression is located over the east-central Arabian Sea and is likely to move northeastward within 24 hours.
The cyclonic circulation that was present over the north Karnataka–Kerala coast has merged with this depression.

New low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal:
A new low-pressure area has formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining Andaman Sea. It is expected to intensify further and may turn into a cyclonic storm by October 27.

Weather in Kerala:
Light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is likely over the next five days. Isolated heavy rainfall is expected today (October 24) and between October 24 and 28, according to the IMD.