Cyclone Montha to Hit Andhra Pradesh Coast on October 28: IMD Issues Red Alert for Heavy Rain & Strong Winds

The India Meteorological Department has issued a high alert as Cyclone Montha, a developing severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal, moves closer to India's eastern coast. According to IMD's latest update, the storm is likely to make landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam on the evening or night of October 28.

Cyclone Montha Path and Wind Speed

Cyclone Montha, named by Thailand, has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the central Bay of Bengal. IMD forecasts that the cyclone will bring wind speeds of 90-100 km/h, gusting up to 110 km/h, as it approaches the Andhra Pradesh coastline. The system may intensify further before making landfall, posing a significant threat to coastal and low-lying areas.

States and Areas Likely to Be Affected

According to IMD, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu are expected to experience the cyclone's impact between October 27 and 29.

Andhra Pradesh: Coastal districts such as Kakinada, Bapatla, Nellore, and YSR Kadapa are likely to witness extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding. Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea until October 28.

Odisha: Southern districts including Ganjam, Koraput, and Malkangiri are on high alert, as they may receive very heavy rainfall of up to 110 mm or more, accompanied by gusty winds.

Tamil Nadu: Northern coastal areas, including Chennai and Cuddalore, may see moderate showers and squally winds, though the main impact will remain concentrated along the Andhra coast.

Government and Disaster Management Preparedness

The governments of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu have activated disaster response units, including NDRF and SDRF teams, in vulnerable coastal regions.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to ensure round-the-clock monitoring, uninterrupted power and water supply, and evacuation of residents from low-lying areas. Schools and colleges in the likely affected districts have also been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure.

Precautions and Public Advisory

The IMD has advised residents of coastal Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha to stay indoors during heavy rain periods, keep emergency kits ready, and stay updated through official weather updates

Fishermen and port authorities have been instructed to suspend all marine operations until further notice. Power disruptions, waterlogging, and transport delays are expected in some districts from October 27 onwards.