Bay of Bengal: Tropical Cyclone Five forms in the Bay of Bengal, Oct. 23

Event

Tropical Cyclone Five formed in the Bay of Bengal Oct. 23. The storm is tracking north-northeastward and is forecast to make landfall over coastal Bangladesh late Oct. 24 or early Oct. 25. As of 17:30 IST Oct. 23, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 700 km (435 miles) south of Kolkata, India. The storm's track and intensity forecast remain somewhat uncertain, and changes may occur over the coming days.

As of Oct. 23, the India Meteorological Department has issued a cyclone alert for the West Bengal coast. It has also issued various storm surge, wind, and rain forecasts for coastal locations along the northern Bay of Bengal. Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the storm progresses.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.

The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.

Advice

Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast adverse weather conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.

Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Joint Typhoon Warning Center
India Meteorological Department