Low pressure area in northwest Bay of Bengal intensifies, heavy rain and strong winds possible

The low-pressure area in the northwest Bay of Bengal has intensified, leading to the possibility of heavy rainfall and strong winds, according to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology. According to observations at 10:30 AM Myanmar Standard Time on July 4, the low-pressure area (Low Pressure Area) that had formed in the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas of northern Odisha and West Bengal states in India has intensified and developed into a Well Marked Low Pressure Area. Due to the influence of this well-marked low-pressure area, thunderstorms are expected to occur from scattered to widespread in Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon Region, Bago Region, upper Sagaing Region, Ayeyarwady Region, Tanintharyi Region, Kachin State, Kayin State, Chin State, Mon State, and Rakhine State from the morning of July 4 until 12 PM, with heavy rainfall possible in some areas. Squalls accompanied by strong winds are expected to occur occasionally along the Myanmar coast and offshore, causing rough seas. During squalls, winds over the sea and land are expected to reach speeds of 30 to 35 miles per hour. Wave heights along the Myanmar coast and offshore are expected to be around 9 to 11 feet. Therefore, due to the possibility of natural disasters such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, sudden floods, and landslides, residents living near high ground are advised to be aware of the risk of landslides, and those living near small rivers and streams are advised to be cautious of floods and inundation. Domestic flights, as well as nearshore and offshore fishing vessels and ships along the Myanmar coast and offshore, are also advised to take precautions in advance, the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has informed.