Cyclone Arnab Expected to Hit Andhra Pradesh Coast on October 28
The India Meteorological Department has issued red alerts for seven districts as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal.
Cyclone Arnab is forecasted to make landfall near Yanam or Kakinada with wind speeds up to 140 km/h.
Red alerts have been issued for seven districts in Andhra Pradesh, with heavy rainfall expected.
State officials are implementing evacuation plans and disaster response measures ahead of the storm.
Cyclone Arnab, which developed over the Bay of Bengal on Monday morning, is projected to intensify into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm by the evening of October 28. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for seven districts in Andhra Pradesh, warning of isolated extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm in areas such as Kakinada and East Godavari. Other districts, including Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam, are expected to receive heavy rainfall ranging from 70 mm to 200 mm.
The IMD's latest update indicates that the cyclone is currently situated approximately 490 km south-southeast of Gopalpur, Odisha, and is anticipated to move west-northwestward, making landfall near Yanam or Kakinada around noon on October 28. Wind speeds are expected to reach up to 140 km/h, posing significant risks to coastal communities.
In preparation for the impending storm, the Andhra Pradesh government has deployed seven National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and eight State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) battalions to the affected districts. The A.P. State Disaster Management Authority has also issued warnings regarding gale-force winds and advised fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea due to rough conditions expected along the coast.
As of Monday evening, Andhra Pradesh had not yet reported any rainfall, although high temperatures were recorded, with Deverapalle reaching 38.4 degrees Celsius. However, the IMD forecasts that intense rainfall will likely begin later in the night as the cyclone strengthens. The public is advised to stay alert and follow safety protocols as the situation develops.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has emphasized the importance of preparedness, directing officials to evacuate residents from flood-prone areas and prioritize vulnerable populations. Plans are underway to transport pregnant women to health facilities, and local authorities are coordinating the return of fishing boats to safety. The Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company has also set up control rooms to monitor the situation and ensure effective emergency responses.
