Cyclone Mocha Likely To Hit After May 8 As IMD Predicts Direction Of Movement
The first cyclone of the year, Cyclone Mocha, is likely to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal this week, as a low-pressure area is developing in the region. As per the IMD, a cyclonic circulation is likely to form around May 6. However, the formation of the cyclone has not been confirmed yet.
“A cyclonic circulation is likely to develop over the southeast Bay of Bengal around May 6, 2023. Under its influence, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the same region during subsequent 48 hours (May 7 and 8),” IMD said on Tuesday.
The system will be named as cyclone ‘Mocha’ if it intensifies into a cyclonic storm.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik yesterday chaired a high-level meeting in view of the possible formation of cyclone ‘Mocha’ over the Bay of Bengal.
Recalling cyclone ‘Fani’ of 2019, the CM said determination of path of cyclones during summer season is difficult. He directed the concerned officials and departments to be in readiness to tackle any kind of eventuality.
He also advised for shifting of people residing in low-lying and vulnerable areas to cyclone shelters, if necessary.
The CM directed to prepare plans in advance for relief and restoration works in the aftermath of cyclone.
He also directed the Chief Secretary to review the situation regularly and asked the Special Relief Commissioner to work in coordination with all departments.
Chief Secretary Pradip Kumar Jena said all efforts will be made to ensure zero casualty during the calamity. All Collectors have been alerted in this regard. Around 1000 cyclone shelters are in readiness while more safe places including school buildings have been identified, the official said.
On the other hand, Special Relief Commissioner Satyabrata Sahu said control rooms have been prepared after holding discussion with Collectors of 18 districts. As many as 17 NDRF and 20 ODRAF teams have been kept ready, he said.
