By Ananya Singh, Senior Meteorologist, WeatherWatch India
Last Updated: June 23, 2025, 08:00 IST
5 Key Takeaways
- Squally Surge Expected: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of storm-driven sea-level rise of 30–40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph over the Andaman Sea for June 18–19. mausam.imd.gov.in
- Fishermen Advisory: Fisherfolk are urged not to venture into the North and South Andaman Sea till June 14 due to rough seas and high winds. rsmcnewdelhi.imd.gov.in
- Geographic Vulnerability: A 2023 study in the Journal of Coastal Research highlights that the north–south orientation of the Andaman Islands can amplify surge heights by up to 1.5 meters during cyclonic events. bioone.org
- Cyclone Formation Alert: A cyclonic circulation over the Southeast Bay of Bengal is being closely monitored; a low-pressure area may form by June 26, potentially intensifying into Depression “BOB-03” by June 28.
- Safety Measures: Coastal communities should secure vessels, reinforce shore infrastructure, and maintain contact with local authorities.
Background: Why Surge Matters
The Andaman Sea’s bathymetry and the islands’ shoreline geometry make it especially prone to storm surge—a rapid rise in sea level driven by strong onshore winds. Even a modest surge can inundate low-lying fishing villages, damage gear, and capsize small boats.
Official Bulletin Snapshot
“Storm Surge/Tidal Warning: Squally weather with surface wind speed reaching 30–40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph very likely over Andaman Sea and Andaman & Nicobar Islands for 18/06/2025; sea conditions very likely to be rough.”
—IMD Coastal Weather Bulletin, June 18–19, 2025 mausam.imd.gov.in
Expert Insight
“Our hydrodynamic models show that rapid storm-driven water pile-up can catch even seasoned fishermen off-guard,” explains Dr. G. Rajamanickam, lead author of the 2023 Journal of Coastal Research study. “Preparation windows can be as short as six hours once cyclogenesis begins near the Andaman Sea.” bioone.org
What Fishermen Need to Know
- Do Not Venture Out: All small-craft advisories are in force for North and South Andaman Sea till June 14.
- Return Immediately: Those already at sea should head back to the nearest safe harbor under escort.
- Communication: Maintain VHF radio watch on Channels 16 and 10; heed local fishing-boat radio nets.
Fact-Check
| Claim | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Surge winds of 30–40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph confirmed | IMD Coastal Bulletin mausam.imd.gov.in | Verified |
| Amplification of surge by 1.5 m due to island geometry | Journal of Coastal Research bioone.org | Peer-reviewed |
| Cyclone “BOB-03” formation timeline | IMD Tropical Weather Outlook | Forecast |
Daily Digest: Ongoing Updates
- June 23, 14:00 IST: Next IMD Marine Bulletin expected; monitor for cyclone tracking graphic.
- June 24, 06:00 IST: Government-run shelters on Little Andaman to open if winds exceed 60 kmph.
- June 25, 18:00 IST: Re-assessment of fishing bans for June 26–28 period.
Further Reading & Resources
- IMD Cyclone Warning Services (RSMC New Delhi)
- National Disaster Management Authority – Cyclone SOPs and community-awareness guides
- Journal of Coastal Research – “Assessment of Storm-Surge Disaster Potential for the Andaman Islands” bioone.org
