Kolkata, Oct 27: Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab is likely to bring heavy rainfall to several parts of West Bengal between October 28 and 30, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Tuesday.
The cyclone, currently lying over the west-central Bay of Bengal, is expected to move northwestwards and make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on the morning of October 28, according to the weather department.
In south Bengal, heavy rainfall is likely in South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura and Paschim Bardhaman districts on October 28 and 29.
Kolkata is likely to receive light to moderate rainfall over the next 48 hours, the IMD said.
In the sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal, heavy rainfall is expected in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts on October 29 and 30.
The IMD is closely monitoring the movement and direction of the cyclone ahead of its expected landfall on Wednesday morning, officials said.
Meanwhile, fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until October 29, as sea conditions are expected to remain rough to very rough under the influence of the cyclone.
Squally winds with speeds of 40-50 kmph and gusts reaching up to 60 kmph are likely along and off the West Bengal coast and over the north Bay of Bengal, officials said.
The weather department has urged people, particularly those living in coastal areas, to remain alert and follow official advisories as the cyclone approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast.
PTI