Cyclone Senyar threat: Tamil Nadu and Odisha prepare for heavy rain

A developing low‐pressure system in the southern Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into cyclonic storm Cyclone Senyar by around 26 November. The India Meteorological Department has issued heavy-rain and coastal advisories for Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and adjacent regions in response.

Formation and likely track

The system originated as a well-marked circulation over the Strait of Malacca and adjacent south Andaman Sea. It is forecast to move west-northwestwards, deepen into a depression near the southeast Bay of Bengal around 24 November, and further intensify into Cyclone Senyar by 26 November. While exact landfall remains uncertain, the Bay of Bengal east coast—including Tamil Nadu and Odisha—is considered at risk.

Wind and rainfall hazards

Models suggest rainfall of 105 mm to 204 mm in 24 hours will be possible over the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as the system strengthens. For the mainland, particularly Tamil Nadu and Odisha coastlines, heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast in coming days. Wind speeds are expected to rise gradually, with gusts potentially reaching 60–65 km/h in the affected sea regions. Rough sea conditions and high waves will accompany the system—fishing and coastal activity risk elevated.

Local readiness and state responses

In Tamil Nadu several districts have already declared precautionary school closures in anticipation of the rainfall. Government agencies are on heightened alert and disaster management teams are monitoring the coastline. For Odisha, especially the northern districts, authorities are reviewing evacuation and shelter logistics due to coastal surge risk. Early action is key given the uncertain path of Senyar.

What to watch: timing and track uncertainty

At present the track remains ambiguous: while initial motion suggests west-northwest progress, forecasters emphasise that a northward recurve toward Odisha or even Bangladesh cannot be ruled out. Landfall timing is still projected around 26 November, but could shift depending on intensity and steering flow in the Bay of Bengal.

Impact on Nagpur region and inland zones

Though Nagpur lies inland and outside immediate coastal danger, secondary impacts such as enhanced rain bands, gusty winds, and elevated water levels in rivers and drainage channels are possible if Senyar moves northwards. Content relevant to the Nagpur-based audience should carry local advisory reminders.

Takeaways

• Heavy to very heavy rainfall (100 mm +) expected along Tamil Nadu and Odisha coasts as Cyclone Senyar develops.
• Wind-gust and rough-sea warnings in place for coastal waters; fishermen and boat operators must take caution.
• Exact landfall location and timing remain uncertain; preparedness should prioritise a broad coastal stretch.
• Inland areas such as Nagpur should monitor secondary effects (rain uplifts, drainage issues) though direct damage risk is low.

FAQs
Q1: What exactly is Cyclone Senyar’s current status?
It is currently a low-pressure area over the south Andaman Sea, likely to become a depression by 24 November and potentially named a cyclonic storm ‘Senyar’ around 26 November.
Q2: Which states are most at risk?
Tamil Nadu and Odisha’s coastal districts are the main risk zones at present. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are already under heavy-rain warnings.
Q3: Should people in Nagpur worry?
Direct impact for Nagpur is unlikely, but the region should stay alert for heavier rain or gusts if the storm track skews inland or northwards.
Q4: What actions should residents take now?
Coastal residents should review evacuation routes, secure loose structures, avoid sea travel, and stay tuned to local forecasts. Inland residents should check drainage, stay alert for alerts, and avoid leaving homes during heavy downpours.