- Cyclone Arnab is forecast to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts near the Bapatla-Visakhapatnam stretch by the forenoon of October 28.
- Maximum sustained winds of 115 to 125 kmph, with gusts up to 140 kmph, are expected at landfall.
- Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast in parts of Odisha, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall possible on October 28.
Bhubaneswar: Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal and is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts near the stretch between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of October 28, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.
The cyclone is expected to bring maximum sustained wind speeds of 115 to 125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph at landfall. The weather system is also likely to affect southern Odisha, where heavy to very heavy rainfall and isolated extremely heavy rainfall have been forecast.
According to the IMD, the cyclone is expected to move west-northwestwards before turning northwestwards towards the coast. Officials have urged people in vulnerable areas to follow official weather bulletins and safety advisories.
Heavy to Extremely Heavy Rainfall Forecast in Odisha
IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty said widespread rainfall was expected across Odisha on Tuesday, October 27, with heavy to very heavy rain at a few places.
Similar conditions are forecast for Wednesday, October 28, when isolated locations could receive extremely heavy rainfall.
The weather department has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning in parts of the state. Residents, particularly those in vulnerable and low-lying areas, should remain alert and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
The cyclone’s effects may extend beyond coastal Andhra Pradesh, with southern Odisha among the regions expected to experience adverse weather conditions.
Cyclone Arnab Intensifies Over Bay of Bengal
According to IMD officials, the system moved westwards across the western Bay of Bengal on Monday before strengthening into a very severe cyclonic storm early Tuesday.
The cyclone is forecast to continue moving west-northwestwards before changing direction towards the northwest and approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast near Yanam.
The expected wind speeds at landfall could damage weak structures, uproot trees and disrupt electricity and transport services. Heavy rainfall may also cause localised flooding and waterlogging in vulnerable locations.
Fishermen and Coastal Residents Advised to Remain Cautious
With the cyclone approaching the coast, people in affected areas should avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and stay away from rough seas and flooded areas.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the affected sea areas along the Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Yanam coasts during the warning period. Residents should follow updates from the IMD, district administrations and disaster management authorities.
People should rely on official advisories for evacuation instructions, shelter information and local weather warnings rather than unverified social media messages.
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