Cyclone Senyar: Andaman and Nicobar Islands on alert as storm threat intensifies over Bay of Bengal

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on a weather alert as a cyclonic circulation develops over the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to intensify from November 21. The system threatens to bring heavy rainfall, squally winds and significant disruption to the archipelago.

According to the IMD’s forecast, the circulation is likely to form a low-pressure area by November 22, subsequently concentrating into a depression over the central parts of the south Bay of Bengal around November 24. If the system develops into a cyclonic storm, it will be named ‘Senyar’.

In response, the Port Blair Port has hoisted Local Cautionary Signal-3, warning of deteriorating maritime conditions. The weather office has predicted squally weather with wind speeds reaching 35-45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph, over the Andaman Sea, leading to rough sea conditions.

The impending severe weather has direct implications for residents and travellers. The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) has announced that the sailing schedules for inter-island vessels are expected to be rescheduled. A senior DSS official stated that services may be suspended or cancelled at short notice, emphasising that “the safety of passengers and vessels is our top priority.”

Harbour and vehicle ferry services at key locations including Chatham, Bambooflat, Dundas Point, Hopetown and Phoenix Bay are likely to face disruptions.

Fishermen have been explicitly warned not to venture into the Andaman Sea until at least November 23. The IMD has forecast squally weather with surface wind speeds reaching 35-45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph, leading to rough sea conditions.

As per reports, the administration has further advised all boat owners, islanders and tourists to navigate with “extreme caution” and to carry out recreational activities carefully due to the likelihood of surging waves. The general public has been urged to avoid going into the sea entirely and to adhere to all safety guidelines.

According to the IMD’s detailed alert, the Nicobar Islands are expected to bear the brunt of the rainfall, with heavy to very heavy precipitation of 7–20 cm predicted at one or two locations. The Andaman Islands are also likely to receive heavy rainfall, measuring between 7–11 cm.

Furthermore, the weather department has reportedly warned that thunderstorms with gusty winds of 40-50 kmph and lightning are also very likely at one or two places over the islands on November 24 and 25.

The situation remains fluid, with the IMD and local administration monitoring the system's development closely. The coming days are critical as the region prepares for the arrival of what could be the first major storm of the season in the Bay of Bengal.