IMD Issues Red Alert As Cyclone Montha Approaches India’s East Coast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for India’s east coast as Cyclone Montha intensifies into a severe cyclonic storm. The cyclone is expected to make landfall near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, on October 28 with winds reaching 90-100 km/h and gusts up to 110 km/h.
Key Takeaways
- Red alert issued for Andhra Pradesh coastal belt and northern/southern regions
- Landfall expected near Kakinada on October 28 evening/night
- Winds of 90-100 km/h with gusts up to 110 km/h predicted
- Heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple states
- Fishermen advised to avoid sea from October 26
Storm Development and Path
Cyclone Montha, developing over the southeast Bay of Bengal, is forecast to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Monday morning. The system has evolved from a low-pressure area into a depression and is expected to strengthen further into a cyclonic storm by October 27-28.
The cyclone will make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, with Kakinada being the expected impact zone. Coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh including Machilipatnam, Kalingapatnam, and Kakinada are likely to bear the brunt of the storm.
Rainfall and Weather Impact
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal on October 27 and 28. Rayalaseema region may receive over 210 mm of rainfall within 24 hours.
Telangana will experience light to moderate rainfall over the next two days, with isolated heavy showers in southern and eastern districts from October 27-29. Hyderabad can expect light to moderate rain today and tomorrow, with similar conditions persisting for the next five days.
Wind Conditions and Warnings
Telangana is likely to experience gusty winds of 30-40 km/h accompanied by thunderstorms. The entire East Coast has been advised to stay out of the water due to strong winds and heavy rainfall conditions.
Safety Measures and Preparedness
Andhra Pradesh authorities have been placed on high alert, with district collectors instructed to activate control rooms and disaster response teams across coastal districts. Emergency relief centers and teams are on standby.
Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea from October 26 due to rough and turbulent sea conditions. The Tamil Nadu Disaster Management Authority has instructed district administrations to remain vigilant, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas affected by recent monsoon rains.
Major ports including Chennai, Ennore, Kattupalli, Nagapattinam, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Thoothukudi have hoisted first-level cyclone warning signals. Shipping operations continue under close monitoring.
Authorities urge residents to stay alert, follow official advisories, and take all necessary precautions as Cyclone Montha approaches.
