Strong winds and turbulent sea conditions expected along Karnataka coast as IMD issues high alert for fishermen
Mangaluru: The India Meteorological Department has issued a major weather alert warning fishermen along the Karnataka coast not to venture into the Arabian Sea till May 25 due to expected turbulent sea conditions and strong winds across coastal regions.
Authorities have also advised fishermen who are already at sea to immediately return to the shore and strictly follow official instructions issued by the Meteorological Department.
The warning comes amid forecasts of squally weather, rough sea conditions and high-speed winds affecting large parts of the Arabian Sea and adjoining coastal regions over the next several days.
IMD Issues Strong Wind Warning Along Karnataka Coast
According to the IMD, squally weather with wind speeds reaching 40 to 50 kmph and gusting up to 50 kmph is very likely to prevail over coastal Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Maldives and Comorin areas between May 20 and May 22.
Weather officials warned that stormy conditions are expected to intensify in parts of the Arabian Sea, posing serious risks to fishing operations and small vessels.
The department further stated that winds could become significantly stronger over certain parts of the southwest Arabian Sea, especially along and off the Somalia coast.
In these regions, wind speeds are likely to reach up to 65 kmph with gusts touching similar speeds, creating dangerous sea conditions.
“Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea till May 25 and those already at sea should return immediately,” the IMD advisory stated.
Rough Sea Conditions Expected Across the Arabian Sea Region
Apart from the Karnataka coast, strong wind warnings have also been issued for several other maritime regions, including the Gulf of Mannar, the southwest and southeast Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea and areas along the Sri Lanka coast.
Meteorologists warned that the developing weather system could lead to rough waves, turbulent waters and reduced safety for marine activities across multiple coastal belts.
Disaster management authorities and coastal officials are closely monitoring the situation and are expected to issue additional advisories if weather conditions worsen in the coming days.
Fishermen Asked to Follow Official Weather Advisories
Officials have urged fishermen, boat operators and coastal residents to remain alert and avoid ignoring weather warnings during the ongoing turbulent conditions.
The IMD’s alert has assumed significance as pre-monsoon weather activity continues to intensify across southern coastal regions, increasing the possibility of strong winds and heavy rainfall activity over the Arabian Sea.
Authorities have stressed that safety precautions and timely response to weather advisories are crucial to prevent accidents and loss of life at sea.
