Sri Vijaya Puram, 26 Nov: The Directorate of Disaster Management has issued an urgent series of weather, farmer, fisherman, and port warnings for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, cautioning residents and coastal communities about a spell of intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and high winds expected over the next several days. The State Control Room, in its bulletin released at 1510 IST, reported that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates a prolonged period of severe weather beginning on Wednesday and continuing through 2 December.
According to the advisory, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur over parts of Nicobar Island today and 27 November, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 50 to 60 kmph. Similar conditions are expected to persist through 29 November, with slightly reduced but still hazardous wind speeds on 30 November. The IMD has emphasized the increased risk of localized flooding, reduced visibility, and disruption to outdoor activities, urging the public to remain cautious.
In coastal areas, a major concern has arisen from the severe sea conditions forecast by IMD. Fishermen across the Andaman & Nicobar coast have been issued a strong warning not to venture into the sea due to the presence of gale-force winds. Wind speeds between 70 and 90 kmph are expected to prevail over the Strait of Malacca, Malaysia, Thailand, and adjoining waters near South Andaman Sea on 26 November. Although winds are predicted to gradually decrease after 27 November, the sea will remain very rough to high, posing a serious risk to small and large vessels alike. Squally conditions with wind speeds up to 55 kmph may continue over the North Andaman Sea until 29 November, further aggravating maritime hazards.
Authorities have announced the total suspension of fishing operations in the South Andaman Sea, the Strait of Malacca, and waters along the Nicobar Islands until 29 November. To reinforce safety measures, Local Cautionary Signal No. 3 has been hoisted at Sri Vijayapuram Port, indicating that port operations may be affected as well. The bulletin emphasizes that mariners, fishing crews, and port users should comply strictly with all advisories during this period.
While weather conditions are expected to begin improving gradually from 30 November onwards, officials warn that some residual roughness in the sea and isolated storms may still occur. Residents, fishermen, and farmers are urged to stay alert, closely follow official updates, and take all necessary precautions as the islands brace for several days of severe weather.
