Cyclone expected to form in Bay of Bengal with warnings of strong winds, heavy rain, and possible landslides

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) has forecasted that a cyclone is likely to form in the east-central part of the Bay of Bengal, with warnings of strong winds, flash floods, and possible landslides.

According to the weather report at 9:30 a.m. on October 21, a low-pressure cell currently forming in the east-central Bay of Bengal and the northern part of the adjoining Andaman Sea has intensified and developed into a low-pressure zone. The DMH predicts that this low-pressure zone could develop into a depression by October 22 and potentially into a cyclone by October 23 in the east-central Bay of Bengal.

Due to the intensity of the low-pressure zone, from now until October 24, scattered to widespread rainfall with locally heavy rainfall is expected in regions such as Nay Pyi Taw, Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Bago, Yangon, Ayeyawady and Taninthayi regions, Chin State, Rakhine State, Kayin State, and Mon State. Some areas may experience strong winds along with the rain.

Along with heavy rainfall, there may be strong winds, thunderstorms, lightning, hail, flash floods, and landslides. People living near rivers and streams are advised to be alert for possible flooding and overflow. The Meteorology Department has also warned those involved in domestic water and air transportation to take precautions.

Occasional storms with heavy rain and strong winds are expected along Myanmar’s coastal areas and offshore waters. During these storms, winds over the sea and land could reach up to 40 miles per hour, and waves may rise to heights of 9 to 11 feet, according to the Meteorology Department's estimates.