As Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab makes landfall on India's eastern coast, authorities have initiated widespread precautionary measures. Among the most significant are the closures of schools and colleges across several coastal states.
Arnab's Landfall and Current Status
The landfall process
for Cyclone Arnab began in the early hours of Wednesday, October 28, along the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the storm crossed the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam as a 'very severe cyclonic storm'. At its peak during landfall, the system brought maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 150 kmph. The process was completed by Wednesday morning, after which the IMD reported that the storm had weakened into a 'severe cyclonic storm' as it moved further inland. The system is expected to continue to move north-northwestwards and gradually weaken further over the next 48 hours.
Which States and Districts are Affected?
Andhra Pradesh is bearing the brunt of the cyclone's impact, with districts like Kakinada, Konaseema, Anakapalli, East Godavari, and Visakhapatnam experiencing torrential rain and high-velocity winds. The IMD had issued a red-level cyclone warning for the Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts. Heavy rainfall is also impacting southern Odisha, with districts like Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, and Koraput on high alert. The influence of the cyclone is expected to extend further, with forecasts of heavy rain in West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and even parts of Jharkhand as the system moves inland.
Details on School and College Closures
In response to the severe weather threat, several state governments have ordered the closure of educational institutions to ensure the safety of students and staff. In Andhra Pradesh, schools and colleges in at least 10 districts, including Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, and Krishna, were ordered to remain closed on October 28, with some closures extending to October 29. Similarly, the Odisha government declared holidays for schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres in six vulnerable districts, such as Ganjam and Gajapati, for October 28 and 29. In Jharkhand, the administrations in Ranchi and other districts also announced school closures for Wednesday and Thursday as a precautionary step against expected heavy rains.
Official Safety and Travel Advisories
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and IMD have issued strict guidelines for the public. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea. People in low-lying coastal areas have been evacuated to cyclone shelters. Authorities have deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams for rescue and relief operations. There are significant disruptions to travel, with flights and trains being cancelled or delayed. Officials have advised that power may be disconnected in some areas as a precaution and have urged citizens to have emergency kits with essentials ready. It is critical to rely only on official sources for information and to disregard rumours. Follow all instructions from local authorities to ensure safety.
