A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is not expected to move toward Myanmar, and a yellow alert has been issued. However, its effects are expected to bring heavy rainfall to parts of 12 regions and states from September 23 to 25, according to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH).
The deep depression, located over the west-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining northwestern Bay of Bengal, has moved westward. It is currently centered at sea, approximately 515 nautical miles west-southwest of Kyaukpyu, Myanmar, 75 nautical miles east-northeast of Visakhapatnam, India, and 75 nautical miles south of Gopalpur, India.
The system is not currently expected to move toward Myanmar and has therefore been classified as a yellow alert. It is forecast to move west-northwestward and may cross the northern coast of Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha near Kalingapatnam, between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur, on the night of September 23.
Due to the influence of the deep depression, thunderstorms and rain are expected from September 23 to 25. Rainfall may occur at scattered to isolated locations in Kachin, Kayah and Shan states, while Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, Mandalay, Bago, Magway, Sagaing, Ayeyarwady, Tanintharyi, Karen, Chin, Mon and Rakhine may experience more widespread thunderstorms and rain. Heavy rain is possible in some areas of Ayeyarwady and Tanintharyi regions and Rakhine State.
Occasional squalls and rough seas are also expected along the Myanmar coastline and offshore waters. Winds may reach up to 35 miles per hour during squalls, while wave heights may reach about 9 to 12 feet along the coast and offshore.
The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology warned that heavy rainfall and strong winds could trigger natural hazards, including flash floods and landslides. People living near mountainous areas, as well as those near small rivers and streams, have been advised to remain alert to possible landslides, flooding and overflowing waterways.
Domestic aviation operators and fishing vessels and ships operating along Myanmar's coastal and offshore waters have also been advised to take necessary precautions.
