96B Invest hits India and Bangladesh

Invest 96B is a tropical disturbance in the northern Bay of Bengal that has developed into a tropical depression / weak tropical storm. As of the latest observations, it is producing sustained winds near 35–45 knots (≈65–85 km/h) with a central pressure around 1006–1008 mb. The system’s tropical storm-force winds extend approximately 40–50 nautical miles from its center. Convection remains organized, and the storm is bringing significant moisture into the Bay of Bengal and surrounding coastal regions.

The storm is forecast to make landfall along the coastal regions of eastern India, particularly Odisha and West Bengal, before moving into Bangladesh. Rainfall totals in these areas are expected to reach 150–250 mm, with isolated areas possibly exceeding 300 mm, especially in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and other elevated terrain. These rains can trigger flash floods, landslides, and riverine flooding, particularly in low-lying coastal and delta areas. Coastal winds are expected to gust up to 60–80 km/h, producing minor storm surge along the Bay of Bengal and tidal flooding in vulnerable areas.

After landfall, 96B is forecast to move inland over northern Bangladesh and eastern India, gradually weakening but maintaining enough circulation to continue producing heavy rainfall for 24–48 hours. The interaction of the tropical system with the southwest monsoon flow may enhance rainfall, particularly in inland and upland regions, increasing the risk of agricultural damage, urban flooding, and transport disruption.

Summary of Expected Impacts:

• India (Odisha, West Bengal, northeastern states): Heavy rainfall (150–300 mm), flash floods, landslides, gusty winds up to 80 km/h, storm surge along the coast, transport and infrastructure disruption.
• Bangladesh (coastal and inland): Rainfall 100–250 mm, river flooding, gusty winds 50–70 km/h, minor coastal surge and urban flooding, agricultural losses.
• Oceanic & Coastal Hazards: Elevated waves 2–4 m along the Bay of Bengal, hazardous for small craft and coastal communities.

Forecasted Regional Impacts Table for Invest 96B

Source: tropicaltidbits.com