Deep Depression Approaches Andhra Pradesh–Odisha Coast: What IMD Forecasts

A depression over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal strengthened into a deep depression on 22 September, according to the India Meteorological Department. In its 10:35 p.m. IST sea-area bulletin, IMD forecast that the system would move west-northwest and cross the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur by the night of 23 September.

That is a forecast, not a report of landfall. The system’s position and expected crossing can change as new observations become available. IMD placed its centre at 5:30 p.m. IST on 22 September near 18.0°N, 85.4°E, approximately 150 kilometres south-southeast of Gopalpur and 220 kilometres east of Visakhapatnam.

Why the marine warning matters

IMD forecast cyclonic winds of 25–30 knots, gusting to 35 knots, over the west-central Bay. Its bulletin described rough to very rough seas, occasionally high, in that area, with widespread rain or thunderstorms and isolated heavy to very heavy rain. The northwest Bay was also expected to have rough to very rough seas, occasionally high, and isolated heavy rain.

For fishers and small-vessel operators, the sea-state warning is a separate concern from the eventual point of coastal crossing. Rain can sharply reduce visibility, while rough seas and gusts can make travel hazardous even before a system moves ashore. People planning marine activity should use the latest location-specific IMD and local authority advisories rather than treating the forecast in this article as a standing clearance or prohibition.

What is known, and what is still forecast

IMD described the system as a deep depression. That classification should not be confused with a declared cyclonic storm. The bulletin records an observed intensification and position on 22 September; the projected crossing on 23 September remains a prediction.

The bulletin was valid for the 12-hour period from 21:00 UTC on 22 September to 09:00 UTC on 23 September. Weather warnings are revised as the system moves. Residents along the coast should check the newest district warnings and official instructions for their own area, particularly where heavy rainfall, coastal winds or marine travel may affect plans.