According to meteorological experts, this depression is likely to intensify further into a cyclonic storm during next 24 hours and very likely to move northwestwards and cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram around noon on November 25. Further, while moving north-westwards, it is predicted to skirt northeast Sri Lanka coast on the same day.

Hence, fishermen were advised not to venture into the sea as sea state is expected to rise. Unusually high tidal waves, which may go up to 3 metres to 3.5 metres, are predicted, sources said. However, the cautionary warning would not affect seaport operations.

When contacted, inspector Kanagaraj of Rameswaram Coastal Security Group, said fishermen from 184 coastal hamlets in Ramanathapuram district have been asked to keep off the sea, citing the likely weather patterns, through megaphones. Fishing operations were restricted since November 22, said the inspector.

Visit news.dtnext.in to explore our interactive epaper!