Cyclone Arnab Approaches Andhra Pradesh: Evacuations Underway
As Cyclone Arnab intensifies, authorities in Andhra Pradesh are evacuating thousands and preparing for severe weather conditions.
Cyclone Arnab is expected to make landfall near Yanam on October 28, 2026.
Approximately 89,000 residents are being evacuated to relief camps along the Kakinada coast.
Wind speeds of 115 to 140 km/h are forecasted, prompting high alert across 13 districts.
Cyclone Arnab, classified as a very severe cyclonic storm, is moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast, with landfall anticipated near Yanam on October 28, 2026. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the cyclone is currently located about 300 km southeast of Visakhapatnam and is advancing at a speed of 25 km/h. Local authorities are on high alert as preparations intensify to mitigate potential damage from the storm.
The impending cyclone has prompted the Andhra Pradesh government to initiate evacuations, particularly in vulnerable coastal areas. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered the relocation of nearly 89,000 individuals to 101 relief camps, emphasizing the need for safety measures in light of the storm's expected impact. This evacuation comes on the anniversary of Cyclone Montha, which devastated the region in 2025, leaving a lasting memory of the potential destruction cyclones can cause.
As the cyclone strengthens, heavy rainfall is predicted across northern coastal districts, with the IMD warning of severe weather conditions. Wind speeds are expected to reach between 115 and 140 km/h, affecting 13 districts. The government has mobilized disaster response teams and is ensuring that essential services, such as food and medical assistance, are available in relief camps. Health officials have prepared over 6,400 emergency beds and deployed medical teams to assist those affected.
The impact of Cyclone Arnab is not limited to Andhra Pradesh; neighboring states, including Odisha, are also preparing for adverse weather. Rainfall has already begun in southern Odisha, and authorities are implementing precautionary measures to protect residents. The cyclone's trajectory indicates that it could affect a wide area, necessitating coordinated efforts across state lines to ensure public safety.
Looking ahead, the situation remains fluid as meteorological assessments continue to monitor the cyclone's path. Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and adhere to evacuation orders. The government is committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens as it navigates the challenges posed by Cyclone Arnab.
