The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) informed that a low-pressure system developed over the east-central Bay of Bengal on Saturday morning will intensify into a cyclonic storm by May 24.
The IMD reported to PTI,” The low-pressure area is very likely to concentrate into a depression over the east-central Bay of Bengal by tomorrow, the 23rd May morning. It is very likely to move north-north-westwards, intensify into a Cyclonic Storm by 24th May and further into a very severe cyclonic storm during the subsequent 24 hours.”
The Cyclone Yaas is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm, which will pass north-north-westwards, crossing West Bengal and the adjacent north Odisha and Bangladesh coasts on May 26 evening.
Last week, an extremely savage storm Tauktae hit Gujarat and the Financial capital of India leaving a trail of destruction across the western coast.
Amidst the pandemic, the Centre has directed states to ensure that all the health departments are fully stocked with the essential supplies. As the cyclone alert was informed, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reviewed the preparedness on Thursday.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has also swung into operation, deploying one C-17, three C-130s, and two An-32s for NDRF personnel transportation from Jamnagar to Bhubaneswar and Kolkata. Following the devastating effects of cyclone Amphan in West Bengal and Odisha last year, the states are now gearing up for Yaas.