The Department of Meteorology has issued a Red Warning for strong winds and rough seas for multi-day fishing vessels operating in the deep and shallow sea areas of the Bay of Bengal.

The deep depression over the east-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into Cyclonic Storm “Arnab.” It has moved westwards and was centred near latitude 15.4°N and longitude 88.9°E at 5.30 a.m. today, 26 October 2026.

The storm is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by 1800 UTC on 26 October, and subsequently into a very severe cyclonic storm over the same region on 27 October, the statement said.

Wind speeds in the sea areas under the warning may increase to 80–100 kmph at times. Heavy thundershowers are also likely, while wave heights may reach approximately 3.0–4.0 metres, resulting in very rough sea conditions in the affected areas.

Accordingly, naval and fishing communities are advised not to venture into the sea areas bounded by latitudes 10°N to 20°N and longitudes 80°E to 95°E until further notice. Those already operating in these areas are advised to move away from the affected sea areas.

Naval and fishing communities are further urged to remain vigilant and closely monitor future forecasts and bulletins issued by the Department of Meteorology regarding the developing weather system.