El Nino and Cyclone Arnab pose twin weather threats to India
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the country is currently facing two major seasonal hazards: a strengthening El Niño in the Pacific Ocean and the development of Cyclone Arnab in the Bay of Bengal. Both systems could bring severe impacts to India's coastal regions.
El Nino raises drought and heat concerns
El Ni, the warm phase of the El –Southern Oscillation, is gaining strength over the Pacific. Meteorologists say this could increase the likelihood of prolonged dry spells and heatwaves across several parts of India, heightening the risk of water shortages and crop stress.
Cyclone Arnarn’s evolution in the Bay of Bengal
In the Bay of Bengal, a low‑pressure area is expected to intensify. If it deepens into a deep depression, it could affect a number of states along the eastern seaboard. The IMD forecasts that the system will strengthen over the Andaman Sea within the next two days, potentially becoming a depression on 21 September and a deep depression on 22 September.
By 23 September, the system may move towards the coasts of Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha, spreading further into the western‑central Bay of Bengal and the adjoining north‑western regions.
Rainfall warnings for coastal states
The IMD has issued heavy‑rain alerts for south Odisha and the northern coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh on 23‑24 September. Isolated heavy showers are also expected in south Chhattisgarh on 24 September. Parts of Chhattisgarh, Telangana and the Vidarbha region may see very heavy rain between 23‑25 September, while western Bengal along the Ganges is likely to experience heavy rain from 20‑26 September.
Other areas under watch include Jharkhand, Odisha and the sub‑Himalayan zones of West Bengal and Sikkim, where rainfall could increase between 22‑26 September. Bihar may also see heavy showers from 24‑26 September.
Wind forecasts and storm intensity
Strong winds are expected alongside the rainfall. In south Odisha and northern Andhra Pradesh, wind speeds could reach 50‑60 km/h on 23‑24 September, with gusts up to 70 km/h. Coastal sections of south Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh may experience winds of 55‑65 km/h on 23 September. Similar gusty conditions are likely along the coasts of south Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal on 23‑24 September.
Precautionary advice
The IMD has urged residents in the affected coastal districts to remain vigilant, secure loose objects, and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak periods of rain and wind. Local authorities are advised to prepare emergency response measures, especially in flood‑prone zones.