Disaster management teams in Odisha have been put on high alert as Cyclone Montha forms over the Bay of Bengal, with landfall expected near the Andhra Pradesh coast on Tuesday.
According to the India Meteorological
Department (IMD), the severe cyclonic storm is likely to develop by October 26 and intensify before hitting the coast near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, on the evening or night of October 28.
Heavy rainfall and strong winds predicted
The IMD has issued a heavy rainfall warning for several states in anticipation of the cyclone. Andhra Pradesh is expected to experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall from October 27 to 28, particularly in Yanam and Rayalaseema. A yellow alert has been declared for the entire state on October 26.
Odisha is also likely to face heavy to very heavy rain in districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri between October 28 and 29. Wind speeds could reach 60–70 km/h, with gusts up to 80 km/h in some areas. Tamil Nadu is expected to witness light to moderate rainfall at most places, with isolated heavy showers on October 25–26 and again on October 28.
Where is the cyclone?
As of 11:30 pm on October 25, the depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal had shifted slightly west-northwest, located approximately 850 km east-southeast of Chennai, 890 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam, and 890 km southeast of Kakinada. Authorities are closely monitoring the storm’s trajectory to prepare for potential impact.
Emergency preparedness in Odisha
Disaster management teams in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Tamil Nadu have been placed on high alert. Fishermen have been ordered not to venture into the sea from October 25–29 due to extremely rough conditions.
In response to the cyclone warning, Odisha’s fire department has been placed on high alert. Fire Officer Prabhat Kumar stated that the department is ready with the SRC boat and draft team to respond immediately. Health facilities have been readied, and special efforts are being made to safely shift pregnant women expected to deliver in the coming days.
Authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant, follow official advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel during the period. Early preparation and coordinated disaster management measures aim to minimise damage and ensure public safety as Cyclone Montha approaches the eastern coast.
Residents in coastal and vulnerable districts are advised to stock essential supplies, secure loose objects, and remain indoors during high winds and heavy rain. Officials continue to coordinate with state and central agencies to ensure timely evacuation and relief if necessary.
The name “Montha” was suggested by Thailand, meaning “fragrant flower” or “beautiful flower”.
