A significant cyclonic storm, dubbed Arnab, is rapidly developing over the Bay of Bengal and is projected to make landfall on India's eastern coast. Andhra Pradesh is on high alert, preparing for the storm's arrival on October 28, while neighboring states Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Odisha are bracing for heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Cyclone Arnab's Path and Intensity
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been closely tracking the weather system, which originated as a low-pressure area over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal before intensifying into a depression on October 24. Forecasts indicate it will move west-northwestwards, strengthening into a deep depression and subsequently a full-fledged cyclonic storm.
According to the IMD, Cyclone Arnab is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts, specifically between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, around the forenoon of October 28. At landfall, the storm could unleash maximum sustained winds of 115-125 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 140 kmph. The name "Arnab," meaning "ocean" in Bengali, was contributed by Bangladesh to the regional cyclone naming list maintained by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the IMD.
Preparedness Measures Across States
Andhra Pradesh on High Alert
Andhra Pradesh authorities are implementing extensive preparedness measures ahead of the anticipated landfall. Residents in coastal areas are urged to stay informed and follow official advisories as the storm approaches.
Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Experience Heavy Rains
Even before landfall, Puducherry and parts of Tamil Nadu have been experiencing continuous rainfall, leading to waterlogging in several areas including Coast Road, Krishna Nagar, and Laspet Sarum in Puducherry. Cyclone warning signals have been hoisted at nine ports along the coast, including major hubs like Chennai, Nagapattinam, Cuddalore, Karaikal, Pamban, and Thoothukudi, advising fishermen not to venture into the sea.
Odisha Shuts Schools, Mobilizes Teams
Odisha has also escalated its preparations, particularly in its southern and coastal districts, which are expected to face significant rainfall and strong winds. Schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centers in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri districts will remain closed on October 28 and 29.
The state has mobilized approximately 60 ODRAF (Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force) teams, 17 NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams, and 225 Fire Services teams to assist with potential rescue and relief operations. The IMD has issued a red warning for these five districts for October 28, forecasting very heavy to isolated extremely heavy rain exceeding 20 cm, alongside gusty winds of 60-70 kmph. In Ganjam district alone, 100 cyclone shelters have been prepared, and 1,000 temporary evacuation locations identified.