Chennai: A developing low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is showing signs of strengthening and could intensify into a cyclonic storm in the coming days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system, currently located over the Strait of Malacca and the adjoining South Andaman Sea, began forming under the influence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation observed on Friday.

The IMD said the low-pressure area took shape at 0830 hours IST on 22 November 2025. Early projections suggest that the system is likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal by 24 November. It is then expected to continue strengthening over the subsequent 48 hours as it heads towards the southwest Bay of Bengal.

System expected to intensify steadily

Meteorologists have been observing favourable conditions, including warm sea-surface temperatures and supportive wind patterns, that could aid further intensification. If the system strengthens into a cyclonic storm, it will be named Cyclone Senyar, meaning “lion”, a name contributed by the United Arab Emirates.

As per IMD norms, naming occurs only once a deep depression intensifies into a cyclonic storm with wind speeds of at least 62 kmph. Until then, the system continues to be classified based on its current strength.

In addition to the existing disturbance, the IMD has also noted the likelihood of a fresh low-pressure system forming over Comorin, southwest Bay of Bengal and Sri Lanka around 25 November. This second system is expected due to another upper-air cyclonic circulation detected on Friday morning.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands to face early impact

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are projected to be the first region affected as the system moves west-northwestwards. The IMD has warned of rapidly increasing rainfall, with the Nicobar region likely to receive heavy to very heavy showers on 24 and 25 November.

Wind speeds of 35–45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, are expected through the weekend. By 25 November, winds may strengthen further to around 65 kmph as the system deepens.

Local authorities in the islands are monitoring the situation closely, especially in low-lying and coastal regions. Residents have been advised to follow daily weather updates and heed safety instructions.

Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the Andaman Sea and southwest Bay of Bengal until 25 November due to rough conditions. The advisory for the southeast Bay of Bengal extends until 28 November.

Heavy rainfall alert for multiple southern states

The IMD has issued a comprehensive rainfall warning across several southern states and Union Territories. Between 23 and 28 November, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Mahe are likely to receive heavy showers on 23 and 24 November, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall possible in some districts. Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Lakshadweep and Rayalaseema have also been placed under a heavy rainfall watch from 23 November.

Tamil Nadu rainfall disrupts normal life

With the Bay of Bengal system already influencing regional weather, widespread rainfall has covered much of Tamil Nadu. Several districts have announced holidays for educational institutions due to waterlogging and safety concerns.

Schools are closed today in:

  • Ramanathapuram
  • Kallakurichi
  • Thoothukudi
  • Mayiladuthurai
  • Thanjavur
  • Pudukottai
  • Trichy

Both schools and colleges are shut in:

  • Tenkasi
  • Tirunelveli

Schools have also declared holidays in Nagapattinam, Sivagangai and Virudhunagar.

The IMD has warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and squally winds over many coastal and interior regions. Power disruptions, traffic delays and minor flooding have been reported in parts of southern Tamil Nadu due to overnight rain.

Conclusion

As the developing low-pressure system continues to strengthen, authorities across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Tamil Nadu, and neighbouring states are on high alert. While it is still too early to predict the final track and landfall point, early indicators suggest the system may intensify into Cyclone Senyar. Fishermen, coastal residents and travellers have been urged to remain cautious and follow official advisories until conditions stabilise.