Cyclone Biparjoy is expected to build into a very severe storm in next 24 hours, affecting Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Goa, says IMD.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) warned on Wednesday that Cyclone ‘Biparjoy,’ which was last reported over the east-central and southeast Arabian Sea, is predicted to migrate northwards and intensify into a severe cyclonic storm during the next 24 hours.

The IMD issued its latest statement at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday, warning of poor weather and sea conditions, with wind speeds likely reaching 135-145 kph and gusting up to 160 kph during the next three to four days. The IMD has also urged fishermen not to go out into the sea.

The cyclonic storm was stationary for three hours as of 2:30 a.m. on June 7, roughly 900 km west-southwest of Goa, 1020 km southwest of Mumbai, 1090 km south-southwest of Porbandar, and 1380 km south of Karachi.

Coastal areas of Lakshadweep, Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra likely to face impact

Cyclone Biparjoy is expected to make landfall in various southwestern states. In these areas, the IMD has issued a wind warning for the next five days.

By evening, strong winds may pick up to 95-105 kph with gusts up to 115 kph in the same area. The storm is expected to have the greatest impact on adjacent parts of the west-central and south Arabian Sea, as well as the coasts of north Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa.

Warnings issued for fishermen

To safeguard safety, the IMD has issued a caution to fishermen not to enter the sea until June 10. Fishermen who are currently at sea are encouraged to return to shore.