Sri Vijaya Puram | The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, which is likely to intensify from August 15, an official said on Friday.

Heavy rainfall ranging from 7 to 1 cm is very likely to occur at one or two places over Nicobar Island, and thunderstorm with gusty wind (40-50 kmph) is predicted at one or two places over the archipelago for four days since November 15.

Squally weather with surface wind speed reaching 35-45 kmph is likely over Andaman Sea, while long, powerful ocean waves with 1.9-2.7 metre height would move toward the shore, the official said.

"Sea condition will be rough during these days and squally wind speed reaching 35-45 kmph occasionally gusting 55 kmph is likely to prevail along and off Andaman & Nicobar coasts. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea along and off Andaman & Nicobar coasts till the weather normalises," he said.

Due to the possibility of surging waves, boat owners, islanders and tourists have been advised by the administration to sail their vessels with utmost vigilance and recreation activities have to be carried out with care, the official said.

People were advised not to venture into the sea and requested to follow all safety guidelines issued by the local administration.

Meanwhile, in view of the weather advisory, the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) is most likely to reschedule the sailing of inter-island vessels.

The DSS may be forced to suspend or cancel mainland/inter-Island/foreshore sector vessels at very short notice.

The safety of passengers and vessels is our top priority. All commuters and tourists have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid any inconvenience," an official said.