Severe Weather Alert Issued as New Cyclone Threat Looms Over India

A new low-pressure system has formed over the Andaman Sea and the southeast Bay of Bengal, raising concerns of an upcoming cyclonic storm in India. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system is expected to intensify into a depression within hours and could develop into a cyclone as it moves toward the Andhra Pradesh coast by November 2, 2026.

The developing weather system brings risks of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and rough to phenomenal sea conditions. Coastal areas in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as well as Andhra Pradesh, face severe weather threats, prompting meteorological authorities to advise fishermen, farmers, and local residents to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into rough waters.

The IMD has forecast widespread rainfall across several states in the coming days. Heavy downpours are anticipated in Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema from November 2 to 3, while Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karikal, and Kerala could experience rain from October 31 through November 6. Additional heavy rainfall is expected in Odisha, Karnataka, Telangana, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Sikkim, and northeastern states, with light precipitation predicted for Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, the remnants of former Cyclone Arnab continue to impact northern regions, including New Delhi. Recent light rainfall and chilly southwest winds brought an early feeling of winter to the capital, causing temperatures to drop. However, meteorological updates indicate that as these weather systems weaken and skies clear, maximum temperatures across Delhi could rise by 7 to 8 degrees Celsius over the next week.

The unseasonal weather has also taken a toll on agriculture. In Varanasi's Chaukhandi village, continuous rainfall over a 24-hour period flattened mature paddy crops in the fields, causing significant distress to local farmers. Agricultural experts warn that the lodged crops not only suffer from reduced quality but will also face severe challenges during harvesting and threshing.

Beyond immediate storm damage, agricultural specialists note that winter weather conditions like persistent fog, frost, and high moisture levels increase the risk of fungal diseases in crops and vegetables. Farmers are advised to utilize treated seeds, ensure proper field drainage to prevent waterlogging, and consult agricultural experts before applying fungicides such as metalaxyl, mancozeb, or carbendazim to protect their yields.