Satellite Images Show Cyclone Arnab Weakening Over India As New System Brews

Recent satellite imagery from India's INSAT-3DS satellite documents the northward movement and gradual weakening of Cyclone Arnab across eastern and central India. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system has transitioned into a well-marked low-pressure area, shifting meteorological focus toward rainfall risks and a developing system over the Andaman Sea.

INSAT-3DS Imagery Analysis

• October 29 Image: Captured a large, organised mass of dense clouds spreading across eastern and central India, with bands extending toward northeastern regions, particularly prominent over Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
• October 30 Image: Showed the cloud mass continuing northward with a less organised, more diffuse circulation structure compared to the previous day.

Transition from Severe Storm to Low-Pressure Area

Arnab initially developed into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm over the Bay of Bengal before moving inland. According to the IMD's assessment issued at 9:15 pm on October 29, the depression weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area at 5:30 pm on October 29 over central Chhattisgarh and adjoining Odisha. The weather agency expects the system to move north-northeastwards and weaken further into a standard low-pressure area over northeast Chhattisgarh and surrounding areas within 24 hours.

Despite the weakening winds, meteorological authorities emphasize that the remnant moisture and circulation continue to pose rainfall and thunderstorm risks across parts of eastern and central India.

New Weather System in the Andaman Sea

In addition to tracking Arnab's remnants, the October 30 satellite data revealed a separate area of intense cloud activity over the South Andaman Sea and adjoining regions. The IMD has identified this as a low-pressure area designated as system A, while tracking Arnab's remnants as system B.

Practical Implications and Verification

• Rainfall Risks: Residents in affected regions should monitor official alerts for potential heavy rainfall and localized thunderstorms.
• Verification: Citizens can check official updates directly through the India Meteorological Department (IMD) website or authenticated meteorological bulletins to verify ongoing weather advisories.