The cyclonic storm “Mocha” over the Southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and lay centered near 12.7°N and 88.1°E at 23.30 hours yesterday (11th May).
It is very likely to move northwards and gradually intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm during the next 06 hours over central Bay of Bengal. Thereafter, it is likely to recurve gradually, and move north-northeastwards with further intensification.
The system likely to cross southeast Bangladesh and north Myanmar coasts around noon of 14th May.
Naval and multi-day fishing communities are advised not to venture into the sea areas bounded by (03N – 20N) and between (85E – 100E) until further notice.
Naval and fishing communities are requested to be vigilant while engaging in naval and fishing activities in the sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Matara and Hambantota and in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Trincomalee via Puttalam, Mannar, Kankasanthurai and Mullaitivu.
Naval and fishing communities are also requested to be attentive to future forecasts issued by the Department of Meteorology in this regard.
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the sea areas around the island.
Winds will be south-westerly over sea area around the island and speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to (55-60) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Matara and Hambantota and in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Trincomalee via Puttalam, Mannar, Kankasanthurai and Mullaitivu.
The sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Matara and Hambantota and sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Trincomalee via Puttalam, Mannar, Kankasanthurai and Mullaitivu will be rough. The other sea areas around the island will be fairly rough.
Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
