Cyclone Arnab Landfall and Current Status
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that the landfall process for Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab was completed on Wednesday morning, October 28. The storm crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast between Kakinada and Yanam, with its centre
moving entirely over land by 8:30 AM. At the time of landfall, the system was packing maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 150 kmph. Since moving inland, the cyclone has begun to weaken into a Severe Cyclonic Storm. Heavy rainfall and strong winds continue to batter several districts, including Anakapalli, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, and Konaseema. The storm surge, predicted to be 1.5 to 2.5 metres above the astronomical tide, poses a significant flooding risk to low-lying coastal areas.
States on Red Alert and Heavy Rainfall Warnings
Andhra Pradesh remains on high alert, with the IMD issuing a 'red alert' for several districts including Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, and Anakapalli, warning of extremely heavy rain. The impact of Cyclone Arnab is also being felt in neighbouring states. Odisha is on high alert, with the southern part of the state bracing for impact as the cyclone moves northwards. Extremely heavy rain is forecast for districts like Gajapati and Ganjam. The influence of the cyclone extends to West Bengal, where heavy rainfall is expected in southern districts, including Kolkata, on October 28 and 29. Further inland, Jharkhand has issued alerts for heavy rain and closed schools in several districts as a precautionary measure.
Massive Evacuations and NDRF Deployment
In a massive precautionary effort, tens of thousands of people have been evacuated from vulnerable, low-lying coastal areas in both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Andhra Pradesh has identified over 2,700 villages as likely to be affected and has prepared nearly 1,900 shelters. In Odisha, more than 30,000 people have been moved to safety. To manage the crisis, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have deployed dozens of teams across the affected states, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh. These teams are equipped to handle search and rescue operations, clear roads of fallen trees, and restore essential services.
Advisories for Residents and Fishermen
Authorities have issued strict advisories for the public to ensure safety. Residents in affected regions are urged to stay indoors and avoid unsafe structures. Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea along the coasts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal until conditions improve. All fishing boats were ordered to return to shore ahead of the cyclone's landfall. People have also been advised to stay away from electric poles and downed power lines. Travel has been significantly disrupted, with Indian Railways cancelling at least 64 train services as a precautionary measure on major routes. Passengers with travel plans are advised to check with railways and airlines for the latest updates.
How to Stay Safe: A Preparedness Checklist
During a cyclone, preparedness is key. Ensure you have an emergency kit with essentials like nonperishable food, drinking water, a first aid kit, torches, and batteries. Secure your home by boarding up windows and clearing your property of any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds. Stay informed by monitoring official updates from the IMD and local disaster management authorities, and disregard rumours. Keep mobile phones charged and use them judiciously. If you are in a low lying area or an unsafe structure, follow evacuation orders from officials without delay. Move to a designated cyclone shelter or a sturdy building on higher ground. After the cyclone passes, beware of potential dangers like snakes, damaged buildings, and live wires.
