Disaster management authorities in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu are on high alert as Cyclone Montha, a severe cyclonic storm forming in the Bay of Bengal, is projected to make landfall near Kakinada on the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several districts and cautioned the public to take necessary precautions in advance of the storm.

According to the latest IMD updates, Cyclone Montha began as a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal and has been moving slightly west-northwest in recent hours. As of 11:30 pm on October 25, the system was positioned approximately 850 km east-southeast of Chennai, 890 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam, and 890 km southeast of Kakinada. The storm is expected to intensify further as it approaches the coast, potentially bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to affected regions.

Rainfall and Wind Forecast

Andhra Pradesh is likely to experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall from October 27 through October 28, particularly in the Yanam and Rayalaseema regions. A yellow warning has been issued for the entire state on October 26, signaling citizens to remain alert for localized disruptions and flooding.

In Odisha, the IMD has predicted heavy rainfall over several districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri on October 28 and 29. Along with the rain, strong winds of 60–70 km/h are expected, with gusts reaching up to 80 km/h in some districts. The authorities have advised residents of vulnerable areas to take necessary precautions and remain indoors during peak hours of the storm.

Tamil Nadu, while less directly in the cyclone’s path, is expected to experience light to moderate rainfall at most places and heavy rainfall at isolated locations between October 25–26 and again on October 28. Coastal districts have been urged to monitor official advisories closely and take preventive measures to avoid flooding and waterlogging.

Disaster Preparedness in Odisha

With the cyclone warning in place, the Odisha Fire Department has ramped up its preparedness for potential emergencies. Fire Officer Prabhat Kumar stated that the department is fully equipped for the storm, with the SRC boat and draft team ready for deployment. In addition, health facilities across the state have been alerted, and special efforts are being made to ensure the safety of pregnant women expected to deliver in the coming days. Emergency response teams have also been instructed to coordinate with local authorities to facilitate evacuations if necessary.

Authorities across the region have been working to alert communities, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas, about the potential impact of Cyclone Montha. People living near rivers, coastal belts, and areas with weak infrastructure are advised to stay updated on the cyclone’s progress and follow guidance from local officials.

Cyclone Monitoring and Warnings

The IMD has stressed the importance of ongoing monitoring, noting that the Bay of Bengal is currently in a conducive phase for cyclone intensification. Residents in affected states are advised to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and secure their property against strong winds and rainfall.

Emergency operations centers in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have been activated to coordinate relief efforts, and disaster response teams have been deployed to strategic locations. Citizens have also been advised to stock essential supplies, including food, water, medicines, and emergency kits, to ensure safety during the cyclone.

As Cyclone Montha advances towards the coast, meteorologists continue to closely track its movement and intensity. The IMD has emphasized that early preparedness and adherence to official advisories are crucial in minimizing the impact of the storm. Residents are urged to stay tuned to government notifications, local news channels, and official social media updates for real-time information on the cyclone and associated safety measures.

The next 48 hours are expected to be critical, as Cyclone Montha moves closer to the Andhra Pradesh coastline and the surrounding states brace for heavy rainfall and strong winds. Disaster management authorities continue to work in tandem with local administrations to ensure timely evacuations, protection of vulnerable populations, and rapid response in case of emergencies.