Even as southern Odisha reels from severe flooding and landslides caused by cyclones Arnab and Murasu, which hit the Andhra Pradesh coast within a span of six days, a fresh weather system is expected to
develop over the Bay of Bengal around November 13.
As per the latest weather update, the system is expected to move northwestwards before turning into a well-marked low-pressure area during the subsequent 24 hours.
It is pertinent to note that the formation of a low pressure area doesn’t necessarily imply that it will escalate into a cyclone. Rather, its intensity hinges on a series of factors, including oceanic and atmospheric conditions.
The development comes close to the heels of Cyclone Arnab, which led to widespread crop losses and property damage in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. The cyclone made landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, followed by Cyclone Murasu on November 3.
The back-to-back cyclones brought heavy rain showers, thunderstorms and flooding across the state, especially parts of the eastern coast.
Cyclones Arnab, Murasu Damaged Crops On 4.61 Lakh Hectares
Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, who was reviewing crop damage of the Agriculture and Horticulture departments through a teleconference on Tuesday, November 10, was informed by officials that the cyclones had damaged agricultural crops on 4,61,194 hectares and horticultural crops on 29,960 hectares, according to The Hindu.
According to officials, Cyclone Arnab impacted 3,27,843 hectares of farmland across 15 districts, accounting for 30.05 per cent of the total cultivated area of 10,90,933 hectares. A total of 5,23,136 farmers were affected, while the estimated crop production loss was recorded at 9,78,091 tonnes.
1.18 Lakh People Affected In Odisha
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has unveiled a relief package for people affected by Cyclone Arnab. He has also vowed to extend financial assistance for crop loss, house damage, and livelihood restoration.
Government sources have revealed that at least 1.18 lakh people were affected, more than 75,000 hectares of farmland destroyed and 1,672 houses were damaged in downpours in Ganjam and Kandhamal districts triggered by Cyclone Arnab.
