Cyclonic storm ‘Midhili’ has weakened into a deep depression over Tripura and adjoining Bangladesh, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to predict its north-northeast movement over South Assam and adjoining Mizoram and Tripura in the next six hours. The storm is expected to pass over the Sunderbans before making landfall on the Bangladesh coast, according to earlier statements from the weather department.

As a result of the cyclonic storm, heavy rainfall has been reported in northeastern states, including Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, and Assam. The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal, which intensified into a cyclonic storm on Friday, has led the IMD to anticipate continued adverse weather conditions in the region on Saturday.

In response to the impending weather conditions, Mizoram's district administrations and disaster management authorities have issued notices, urging residents to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures. Additionally, a red alert has been issued in four districts of Tripura, highlighting the severity of the situation.

The IMD's forecast indicates significant rainfall in various districts, with Aizawl district expected to receive 51 mm of rain between November 17 and 18. Other districts such as Champhai, Kolasib, Lawngtlai, and Mamit are also anticipated to experience heavy rainfall, adding to the challenges posed by the cyclonic disturbance. The state capital, Agartala, has already recorded 87 mm of rainfall since Thursday evening, according to reports from the Meteorological Office.

It is noteworthy that the name ‘Midhili’ was given by the Maldives, as part of the naming sequence adopted by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and member countries of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission (ESCAP) for cyclones in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. This collaborative system aims to streamline communication and response efforts during such weather events.