Cyclone Arnab to Make Landfall in Andhra Pradesh on October 28

India is bracing for the impact of Cyclone Arnab. A severe cyclonic storm expected to make landfall along the north Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam on October 28. The storm, currently a depression, is projected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 27.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

A powerful cyclone has formed in the northern hemisphere. Its development mirroring the conditions of an El Niño year, marked by unusual warmth in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon has led to a notable shift in tropical cyclone patterns.

With storms now forming at lower latitudes and converging on the Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu coastlines. Currently, the system is intensifying as a depression, situated approximately 470 kilometers north-northwest of Sri Vijay Puram, 860 kilometers east-southeast of Visakhapatnam, and 950 kilometers east-southeast of Kakinada.

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The Odisha government has issued heavy to very heavy rainfall warnings for the Andaman Islands through October 27. Meanwhile, coastal districts across northern Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha have also been placed under high alert. Forecasts predict very heavy rainfall across the regions through October 29.

Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri districts are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, with wind speeds of 80-90 kmph, the Odisha government said.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reviewed the preparedness and directed officials to ensure zero casualties. Drawing on the state’s experience in handling previous cyclones. He shared the cyclone was more likely to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast.

Cyclone alert in Odisha Schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres in five southern Odisha districts bordering Andhra Pradesh will remain closed on October 28 and 29. This measure aims to minimize disruptions and protect vulnerable populations.

The Odisha government has also taken measures to evacuate residents from low-lying areas and ensure the availability of essential supplies. This includes food, water, and medical aid. The state’s disaster management team is working closely with the IMD to monitor the storm’s progress and provide timely updates to the public.

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Andhra Pradesh is also on high alert, with the state government issuing a high-level alert to all districts along the coast. The government has also activated its emergency response system. This includes the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority (APDMA).

Climatologically, the storm’s formation aligns with conditions typical of an El Niño year. This system is likely to move nearly southwards and intensify into a deep depression. The Bay of Bengal depression is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm, posing a significant threat to the region.

The Odisha Cyclone Live Updates | Andhra Pradesh on alert as Bay of Bengal depression likely to intensify into severe cyclonic storm Climatologically. The storm's trajectory and intensity are expected to be closely monitored by the IMD and other authorities in the coming days.