High Energy Swell Waves Likely to be Experienced in Seas around India

High Energy Swell Waves Likely to be Experienced in Seas around India

• High energy swell waves likely to be experienced in the seas around India [westcoast, South Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar and West Bengal] during 27 to 30, September 2018)

Hyderabad: As per the latest multi-model based operational wave forecasting system at INCOIS, Hyderabad, there is a strong indication that high energy swell waves, with periods between 16-20 seconds and heights between 1 to 1.5 m are likely to be experienced in the seas around India. Since this event coincides with spring tide conditions, the effect will be amplified during high tides. The high period swells will be first experienced along the south-west coast of India and Lakshadweep by evening hours of Thursday ie 27 September 2018 and subsequently Andaman and Nicobar by 28 September 2018 and West Bengal by 30 September 2018. However, the effect of this event will not be experienced along the shores of North Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Orissa.

The low lying coasts of Kerala and West Bengal are particularly vulnerable. This event will be monitored in real time using instruments, which have been deployed in the deep sea and near shore. INCOIS has even deployed a wave rider buoy off Seychelles for monitoring such events for early warning requirements and there is a plan to deploy one off south of Sri Lanka in the near future. The observed swell period is 19 second at 08:30 hours of 26 September 2018 by the buoy off Seychelles, which is an observed confirmation that the swell train approaches Indian coastline.

The communities along the seashore of the above-mentioned states and Union Territories are advised to be cautious, during September 27 to 30, 2018. There is a possibility of surging of waves during the high tide times, in the low lying areas of the coasts during such events. It is also advised that the water-based recreational activity at the coast be suspended during these events. The boats may be anchored at a fair distance from each other, to avoid collision and damage. Boats plying very near to the coasts may be avoided during this period as the coastal regions will experience its effect more, and also taking out the boats from the shore to the sea and back can be avoided. The effects of such events in the open ocean is likely to be minimal.

The public is advised to check the INCOIS website (www.incois.gov.in/portal/osf/osf.jsp) for further information and updation of the event (like early warnings and withdrawal of warnings).