7th June 2023, Mumbai: Cyclone ‘Biparjoy,’ pronounced as “Biporjoy,” has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the east-central and southeast Arabian Sea. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the cyclone is likely to move northwards in the next 24 hours, gaining strength as it develops into a very severe cyclonic storm. It is anticipated to continue its path in a north-northwest direction over the following three days.
According to a tweet by the IMD, “Severe Cyclonic storm Biparjoy over east-central and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea at 0830 IST of 7th June, near lat 12.7N and lon 66.2E, about 880km WSW of Goa. Likely to move nearly northwards and intensify into VSCS during the next 12 hrs.”
The cyclone’s wind speed is projected to range between 135-145 km/h, with gusts up to 160 km/h on June 7th, and further increase to 145-155 km/h, gusting to 170 km/h, by June 10th, 2023. It is expected to maintain its classification as a very severe cyclonic storm until June 12th.
Given the rough winds and sea conditions, the IMD bulletin has issued a warning to fishermen, advising them not to venture into the Central Arabian Sea, North Arabian Sea, and adjoining areas of the South Arabian Sea until June 12th. As for rainfall, the Meteorological Department has forecasted the possibility of light to moderate rain in several parts of Mumbai, Palghar, and Thane from June 7th to 10th.
The cyclone is likely to draw moisture from the Southwest monsoon, potentially causing a delay of several days in its arrival over the southwestern parts of India. The situation calls for preparedness and caution from the authorities and residents in the affected regions as the cyclone progresses. Regular updates from the IMD will be crucial in monitoring the cyclone’s path and intensity to ensure the safety of the communities in its trajectory.
Article by PRITESH PATEL