LSN News › Sri Lanka

World · Sri Lanka Bureau

Cyclonic Storm Arnab Intensifies Over Bay of Bengal

The Department of Meteorology has issued warnings as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has strengthened into Cyclonic Storm Arnab. The system is expected to move westward and intensify further in the coming hours.

LSN Sri Lanka · 26 October 2026

Cyclonic Storm Arnab Intensifies Over Bay of Bengal

The Meteorology Department confirmed that the deep depression previously tracked over the east-central and southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into cyclonic storm status and has been named Arnab. As of 5:30 a.m. on October 26, the system was centered near latitude 15.4°N and longitude 88.9°E, positioning it over the eastern portions of the bay.

The cyclonic storm is forecast to move in a west-northwesterly direction over the coming period. Meteorologists have indicated that Arnab is likely to undergo further intensification as it tracks across the Bay of Bengal, though the exact trajectory and timing of potential impacts remain subject to atmospheric conditions.

The Department of Meteorology has urged residents and maritime interests in affected regions to monitor official weather updates closely. Fishermen operating in the bay have been advised to exercise caution, and coastal communities are being advised to prepare contingency measures in anticipation of the system's progression.