The Department of Meteorology has warned naval and fishing communities to avoid several sea areas in the Bay of Bengal after Cyclonic Storm “Arnab” intensified into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm.
According to the department, the storm was centred over the west-central Bay of Bengal at 2.30 a.m. today (October 27), approximately 890 kilometres northeast of Kankesanthurai.
The system is expected to move west-northwestwards until 5.30 p.m. today before turning northwestwards. It is forecast to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast in India as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm by 11.30 a.m. tomorrow (October 28).
The department warned that wind speeds in the sea areas between latitudes 10°N and 20°N and longitudes 80°E and 95°E could reach 80–140 kmph, accompanied by heavy thundershowers and waves measuring 3–4 metres in height.
Naval and fishing communities have been strongly advised not to venture into the affected sea areas until further notice. Those already operating in these waters have been urged to move away immediately.
Meanwhile, showers or thundershowers are expected at several locations in the sea areas surrounding Sri Lanka, with southwesterly winds ranging from 30 to 40 kmph.
Wind speeds in the sea areas extending from Colombo to Mullaitivu via Galle, Matara, Hambantota, Pottuvil and Batticaloa could temporarily increase to 60–65 kmph. Winds in other sea areas around the island could reach speeds of up to 50 kmph.
The department cautioned that sea conditions along the Colombo–Mullaitivu coastal stretch could become very rough at times, while rough seas are expected in other surrounding waters.
Wave heights in the sea areas extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Matara could rise to 2–2.5 metres.
Temporarily strong gusty winds of 60–70 kmph and very rough sea conditions are also expected during thundershowers.
The Department of Meteorology has urged naval and fishing communities to remain vigilant, avoid hazardous sea areas and closely follow the latest weather forecasts and official advisories.
