- Cyclone Arnab has uprooted trees, flooded roads and disrupted electricity supplies across parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh.
- The IMD said the rear portion of the cyclone’s wall cloud was expected to reach the coast on Wednesday morning.
- Residents should stay indoors during severe weather, avoid flooded roads and follow official instructions.
Amaravati/Bhubaneswar: Cyclone Arnab has caused widespread disruption across coastal Andhra Pradesh, with strong winds uprooting trees, heavy rainfall flooding roads and electricity supply interrupted in several locations. Authorities have urged residents to remain indoors as the landfall process of the very severe cyclonic storm continues.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the rear portion of the cyclone’s wall cloud was expected to reach the coast within the next hour, completing the landfall process. The storm’s centre remained close to the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts in the early hours of Wednesday.
Coastal areas, including Kakinada, Konaseema and West Godavari, have reported powerful winds and heavy rainfall. Waterlogging and fallen trees have affected traffic movement, while rough sea conditions have prompted restrictions along vulnerable coastal stretches.
Powerful Winds and Heavy Rain Lash Coastal Districts
IMD officials reported gusty winds of around 125 to 135 kmph in parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh, with stronger gusts possible. The cyclone’s slow movement near the coast has raised concerns about prolonged severe weather.
Several areas have experienced waterlogging, with roads and low-lying locations inundated by rainwater. Fallen trees and electricity poles have also disrupted transport and essential services.
In Visakhapatnam, a tree was uprooted near Andhra University’s College of Engineering for Women. Strong winds and high tides affected RK Beach, prompting authorities to restrict public access as a precaution.
The IMD has warned of possible flash flooding across several districts, including Kakinada, Konaseema, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, East Godavari and West Godavari.
Storm Surge Risk Along Kakinada and Yanam Coasts
The sea has become highly turbulent along the Kakinada and Yanam coastlines. Officials have warned that seawater could inundate low-lying coastal areas, creating additional risks for residents.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, while people living in vulnerable coastal locations have been urged to follow official safety instructions.
Residents have also been warned against standing beneath large trees, electric poles or unstable structures during strong winds. Authorities have asked people to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
Andhra Pradesh Steps Up Emergency Preparedness
The Andhra Pradesh government has deployed disaster response teams and prepared shelters, medical facilities and emergency supplies to manage the cyclone’s impact.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the government was closely monitoring the situation. Authorities have arranged evacuation plans, emergency medical assistance and equipment to clear fallen trees and restore road connectivity.
Medical teams, ambulances and emergency beds have been kept ready, while pregnant women in vulnerable areas have been shifted to hospitals as a precaution.
Officials are also monitoring essential services, including drinking water supplies, telecommunications and electricity restoration.
Flights and Train Services Disrupted
Cyclone Arnab has affected transport services in the region. Flight operations at Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada and Rajahmundry airports faced suspensions or cancellations as the storm approached.
Several train services were also cancelled or rescheduled because of adverse weather conditions. Passengers have been advised to check with airlines and railway authorities before travelling.
Road movement has been disrupted in areas affected by flooding and fallen trees. Authorities have urged people to avoid non-essential journeys until conditions become safer.
Odisha Also Needs to Monitor Cyclone Impact
The cyclone’s effects are being closely monitored in neighbouring Odisha, particularly in southern districts that may experience heavy rainfall.
Residents should follow the latest bulletins from the IMD and instructions issued by district administrations. Weather conditions and local warnings may change as the cyclone moves inland and weakens.
People in vulnerable areas should remain alert to possible flooding, falling trees and disruptions to electricity and communications.
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