Published: April 16, 2009

Tropical Cyclone Bijli Could Strike Myanmar Near Anniversary of Nargis

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AccuWeather.com reports Tropical Cyclone Bijli (01B) is gathering strength as it churns through the northern Bay of Bengal.

The current position has the center of the storm 350-400 miles south-southwest of Kolkata, India, and has been slowly moving north-northeastward over the past several hours. High pressure over northern India will gradually steer the system more to the northeast and east Friday and Saturday.

Water temperatures in Bijli's path are in the low 80s, and upper-level wind shear remains light. These ingredients should allow Bijli to strengthen prior to landfall Saturday or Saturday night. There is a good possibility that winds will become sustained at hurricane strength (75 mph) at the time of landfall.

Outer rain bands are currently impacting eastern India, southern Bangladesh and western parts of Myanmar. Conditions will continue to deteriorate across southern Bangladesh and Myanmar as Bijli approaches. Landfall is likely near the border of Bangladesh and Myanmar late Saturday or Saturday night local time.

In addition to the torrential rainfall, flooding and strong winds common with tropical cyclones, a dangerous storm surge is expected across western Myanmar prior to and during landfall Saturday and Saturday night.

Myanmar was struck by Cyclone Nargis on May 2 of last year. Nargis resulted in the worst natural disaster in Myanmar's recorded history. While Bijli is not expected to be as strong as Nargis, widespread flooding is anticipated.

To learn more or discuss with a forecaster, please contact:

Justin Roberti
Roberti@AccuWeather.com

Or call our 24-hour press hotline:
814-235-8710

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