Deep depression intensifies to cyclone, moves away from Maldives

The deep depression over Lakshadweep area has intensified into a tropical cyclone.

Maldives Meteorological Service reports the tropical cyclone "Tauktae" is now located approximately 400 miles north of HA. Thuraakunu.

"The cyclone is expected to intensify further and move in a north-northwesterly direction away from Maldives," said Maldives Meteorological Service in  a statement on Saturday morning.

Strong winds and rough seas associated with the cyclone will continue for the next 18 hours. 

Thereafter, the prevailing hulhangu monsoon (southwest monsoon) is expected to bring rain and isolated heavy showers across Maldives.

Maldives Meteorological Service forecasts surface winds to vary between southwest/westerly at 17 – 27 miles per hour in northern atolls and 15 – 25 miles per hour elsewhere. Winds may increase to 55 miles per hour during squally showers.

Seas are expected to be generally rough throughout the country, and waves are expected to form at heights of 4-8 feet.

Maldives Meteorological Service warns wave surges are possible during high tides, and has advised seafarers to take necessary precautions.