New Delhi, November 27, 2025 – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a warning as a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal intensified into Cyclone Ditwah, posing potential threats to the coastal regions of North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh. Authorities have urged residents of coastal districts to remain alert, closely follow weather advisories, and take precautionary measures as the system advances toward the Indian coastline.

According to the IMD, Cyclone Ditwah, which has been steadily strengthening over the past several hours, is currently positioned approximately 90 km south-southeast of Batticaloa, 120 km northeast of Hambantota, 200 km south-southeast of Trincomalee in Sri Lanka, and about 610 km south-southeast of Puducherry and 700 km south-southeast of Chennai. The cyclone is forecast to intensify into a cyclonic storm within hours, continuing its north-northwesterly trajectory along the Sri Lankan coast before entering the southwest Bay of Bengal.

The IMD has highlighted that Cyclone Ditwah is expected to reach the waters off North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh by the early hours of November 30, 2025. Residents in vulnerable coastal areas have been advised to remain indoors, secure boats and fishing vessels, and stay updated on official advisories from the IMD and local authorities. Early preparation and vigilance are being emphasized to prevent loss of life and property in the event of high winds, heavy rainfall, and potential coastal flooding.

The formation of Cyclone Ditwah is closely linked to a remnant low-pressure system from Cyclone Senyar, which had traversed the Strait of Malacca. Over the last six hours, the system has moved nearly eastwards at a speed of 18 kmph, centred about 200 km south-southwest of George Town (Malaysia), 320 km east-southeast of Kuta Makmur (Indonesia), 820 km southeast of Nancowry (Nicobar Islands), and 960 km southeast of Car Nicobar. Meteorologists have noted that the interaction of this low-pressure system with warm Bay of Bengal waters has contributed to its rapid intensification.

The IMD has stressed that heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high waves are likely in coastal areas, and fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until further notice. District administrations in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh are coordinating with local authorities to prepare relief measures, including evacuation plans for low-lying and vulnerable areas. Shelters have been readied, emergency services are on standby, and communication lines with local communities have been reinforced.

In a related development, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) issued a brief tsunami alert for parts of the Andaman and Nicobar region following a 6.3-magnitude earthquake along the Sumatra coast at 10:51 am. The alert was subsequently lifted at 11:17 am after assessments confirmed that there was no threat to the Indian coastline. Authorities continue to monitor seismic and oceanic activity in the region as a precautionary measure, given the history of tsunamigenic earthquakes in the Indian Ocean.

The approaching Cyclone Ditwah serves as a reminder of the increasing vulnerability of coastal India to extreme weather events, particularly during the post-monsoon season when the Bay of Bengal remains active. Experts have emphasized the importance of early warning systems, real-time monitoring, and public awareness campaigns in minimizing casualties and property damage. The IMD’s predictive models have become increasingly accurate, allowing authorities to issue timely advisories and take preemptive steps to ensure community safety.

Officials have also urged citizens to adhere strictly to evacuation orders, avoid venturing near rivers, canals, and other water bodies, and avoid unnecessary travel along coastal roads during the cyclone’s approach. Schools, colleges, and government offices in affected regions may be temporarily closed depending on the severity of rainfall and wind speeds.

Cyclone Ditwah’s intensification has coincided with the seasonal surge in post-monsoon cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal, a region that frequently witnesses depressions, storms, and cyclones between October and December. The IMD has advised continuous monitoring of updates as the system progresses and stressed that preparedness measures should be implemented immediately.

Residents of affected areas are encouraged to stay connected with local media, follow official government channels, and keep emergency kits ready, including essential medicines, drinking water, and non-perishable food. Community volunteers and disaster management teams are on alert, coordinating relief operations in advance of the cyclone’s expected landfall.

In conclusion, while the Indian meteorological and disaster management authorities are closely tracking Cyclone Ditwah, the situation remains fluid, and the full extent of its impact will depend on its trajectory and intensity over the coming days. Early action, adherence to advisories, and vigilance remain critical for minimizing the risks posed by this rapidly intensifying weather system.