Two active weather systems in the Indian Ocean are intensifying sea conditions across areas surrounding the Maldives, with strong winds and moderate to rough seas expected to continue over the region through 27 November, according to the latest update issued early today by the India Meteorological Department.
The IMD National Bulletin No. 11 reports that Cyclonic Storm “Senyar” near northeast Indonesia and a deepening depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal are jointly influencing winds across the central Indian Ocean, including waters used frequently by Maldivian marine transit.
Squally winds to affect Maldives region
The bulletin confirms squally winds of 35 to 45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph over Southeast Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep and Maldives areas during 26 to 27 November. These conditions could disrupt inter-atoll travel and cargo movement.
Sea conditions: Moderate to rough
Sea state near Maldives remains moderate to rough, with stronger turbulence expected further north and east as the Bay of Bengal depression intensifies and moves closer to Sri Lanka and India.
Fishermen operating in open waters south of the archipelago could experience choppy waves and rapid weather changes.
IMD warns fishermen to avoid Maldives-adjacent hazard zones
The IMD has issued a specific advisory that fishermen should not venture into areas adjoining Maldives until conditions improve. The warning applies to:
- Southeast Arabian Sea
- Lakshadweep area
- Along & off Kerala
- Maldives maritime zone
Valid until: 27 November
Small boats, speed launches and dhoni vessels are particularly vulnerable due to wind gusts and poor visibility.
Storm “Senyar” weakening but still influencing ocean winds
Cyclonic Storm “Senyar” remains active near the Strait of Malacca, though IMD forecasts weakening to a depression by tonight. Despite weakening, its circulation continues to drive wind patterns westward across the Indian Ocean.
Satellite imagery included in the bulletin (page 6) depicts the storm positioned southeast of the Nicobar Islands while the second depression is located south of Sri Lanka.
Depression near Sri Lanka expected to intensify
The depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal and Sri Lanka coast is expected to strengthen into a Deep Depression within 12 hours, tracking toward Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and South Andhra Pradesh over the next 48 hours.
While rainfall is not directly forecast for the Maldives from this system, its influence will continue to elevate wind and sea conditions around the archipelago.
Port and marine operations urged to review safety
The IMD emphasizes the risk to:
- Marine transport: especially inter-atoll ferries, fishing vessels and speed launches
- Tourism excursions: diving, island-hopping and resort transfer crafts
Authorities are advised to regulate maritime activity until conditions stabilize.
Advisory for the public
- Check travel advisories before booking island transfers
- Avoid non-essential travel in open seas
- Fishermen should remain in harbor until green-flag updates
- Resorts should monitor forecasts closely for excursion planning
