- By Sahelee Rakshit
- Wed, 14 May 2025 03:46 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Weather News: After speculations about a probable cyclonic storm 'Cyclone Shakti,' which was expected to affect the Odisha coast and parts of West Bengal by May 23-28, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday, May 14, strongly refuted the reports, which were also making rounds online.
In a stern explanation, the IMD reaffirmed that no such cyclone has been forecast and accused certain media outlets of disseminating false information that has caused institutional embarrassment and public confusion.
The IMD explained in its official communication that it had not recorded a cyclonic storm on May 13, but rather the existence of a cyclonic circulation over the Andaman Sea.
Cyclonic Circulation vs Cyclonic Storm
Meteorologically, both the terms are different. A cyclonic circulation is a region of low pressure with rotating winds in the upper atmosphere and may not develop into an intense system.
On the other hand, cyclonic storm is a well-formed system with sustained surface wind speeds of 62-88kmph, often tracked as a probable threat.
The IMD warned that continuous misreporting might lead to the IMD being "compelled to stop providing weather information to media," and it advised media outlets to avoid disseminating speculative or inaccurate information.
An upper air cyclonic circulation is currently present across East Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring Bihar at 0.9 km above mean sea level, according to the most recent official bulletin.
This system, together with a trough extending into southern Odisha, is impacting current weather patterns.
Bengal Weather
It is anticipated that north Bengal will have increased thunderstorm activity with heavy rainfall in several districts, while south Bengal will see humid and hot weather with isolated heatwave episodes till May 15. Light to moderate rain, lightning, and gusty winds are expected for portions of both areas in the days ahead.