A very severe cyclonic storm, named Arnab, is currently over the Bay of Bengal and is projected to make landfall on the morning of October 28. This guide provides a detailed list of affected coastal districts and essential safety information.
Cyclone Arnab: Latest Position and Intensity
According
to the latest bulletin from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on October 27, Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a 'very severe cyclonic storm'. It is currently centered over the west-central Bay of Bengal, approximately 170 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The system is moving in a west-northwesterly direction and is expected to cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, on the forenoon of October 28. At the time of landfall, maximum sustained wind speeds are predicted to be between 125-135 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 150 kmph, making it extremely dangerous.
Red Alert: Andhra Pradesh Districts Facing Highest Risk
Andhra Pradesh is expected to bear the direct impact of Cyclone Arnab. A red alert, indicating the highest level of warning, has been issued for several coastal districts where extremely heavy rainfall (over 204.5 mm) is anticipated. A storm surge of 1.0 to 2.0 metres above the astronomical tide is also likely, which will inundate low-lying areas. The districts under the highest alert include Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Konaseema, Anakapalli, Alluri Sitharama Raju, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna, and Guntur. Residents in these areas are advised to expect total destruction of thatched houses, extensive damage to kutcha houses, and some damage to pucca structures. Widespread disruption to power and communication lines is also expected. Authorities have begun evacuating tens of thousands of people from vulnerable, low-lying coastal communities to safer shelters.
Orange Alert: Odisha Districts to Brace for Heavy Rain
While the cyclone's direct landfall is predicted for Andhra Pradesh, several districts in southern Odisha are also under an orange alert. These areas are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall (115.6-204.4 mm) and strong winds. The districts most likely to be affected in Odisha are Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, and Malkangiri. Authorities have put district collectors on high alert for potential waterlogging, urban flooding, and landslides in hilly areas. Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea along the Odisha coast until October 29. Ferry services and other marine activities have also been suspended as a precautionary measure.
Travel Disruptions and Official Advisories
Widespread travel disruptions are already underway. Dozens of train services have been cancelled or rerouted across Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring regions. Flight operations at airports like Visakhapatnam (VTZ) and Vijayawada (VGA) have also been impacted, with multiple cancellations and diversions reported. National and State Disaster Response Force (NDRF and SDRF) teams have been deployed to the atstk districts for rescue and relief operations. The IMD and local authorities urge the public to follow all official directives, stay indoors, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Essential Safety Measures: What You Must Do
Preparedness is key to safety. If you are in the affected areas, follow these crucial guidelines. Heed all evacuation orders from officials immediately; do not wait. Secure your home by boarding up windows and clearing your yard of any loose objects that could become projectiles. Keep an emergency kit ready with essentials like nonperishable food, drinking water, a first aid kit, torches, batteries, and any necessary medications. Ensure your mobile phones are fully charged. During the storm, stay inside the strongest part of your house, away from windows. Be aware that a calm period might be the cyclone's eye passing over; the storm is not over until officially declared. After the storm passes, beware of downed power lines, snakes, and damaged buildings. Do not enter floodwaters. Rely only on official sources like the IMD and NDMA for information and ignore rumours.
