Authorities have issued a weather advisory for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds and lightning over the next two days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast strong surface winds and rough sea conditions across the region, prompting officials to raise local cautionary signals and urge fishermen to stay ashore.
According to the alert, thunderstorms with gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are likely to occur at one or two places over the islands on October 27 and 28. Lightning activity is also expected during this period. In addition, squally weather conditions with surface wind speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are likely over the Andaman Sea along and off the island coasts.
The IMD has cautioned that sea conditions will remain rough to very rough throughout the warning period. As a result, the Fisheries Department has advised fishermen not to venture into the Andaman Sea or coastal waters from October 27 to 28. Local cautionary signal number 3 has been hoisted at Sri Vijaya Puram Port as a safety measure for vessel operators.
Forecasts also indicate the formation of swell waves with a period of 14.0 to 16.0 seconds and heights between 1.3 and 1.6 metres during the 11:30 to 23:30 hour window on October 27. These conditions could lead to temporary surges in wave activity, potentially affecting coastal and low-lying areas. Authorities have recommended that all small boats and ferries operate with extreme vigilance and ensure proper communication and safety protocols while at sea.
Local tourism operators and those engaged in small-scale marine transport have been advised to monitor weather updates closely. The administration has also recommended that recreational and water-based activities be undertaken only with caution, especially near beaches and inter-island routes.
Officials noted that the warning forms part of a regular system of precautionary advisories issued during the post-monsoon transition period when atmospheric instability often triggers short-lived but intense weather disturbances across the Bay of Bengal and adjoining seas. Such advisories help prevent loss of life and property, particularly in regions heavily dependent on maritime activities.
Port authorities in Sri Vijaya Puram have initiated safety checks and issued guidance to local fishermen’s cooperatives. They have also urged the operators of passenger ferries to adhere strictly to navigation advisories until weather conditions stabilise.
The IMD’s forecast also serves as a reminder of the need for continuous preparedness in the island territories, where weather conditions can change rapidly. The administration’s coordination between meteorological, fisheries, and disaster management departments is aimed at ensuring timely dissemination of information to coastal residents and seafarers.
As the weather system progresses, authorities are expected to provide further updates through official channels and local broadcast networks. Residents have been advised to remain alert and avoid unnecessary sea travel until the advisory is lifted.
With the Andaman Sea known for its unpredictable weather patterns during seasonal transitions, adherence to safety advisories remains essential. The latest forecast underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness, as the islands brace for a brief spell of turbulent weather before calmer seas return later in the week.
