A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm named Cyclone Arnab.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is projected to make landfall between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh on the morning of October 28. During landfall, wind speeds are expected to reach 115 to 125 km/h, with gusts peaking at 140 km/h.
Although the storm’s direct landfall will occur along the Andhra Pradesh coast, its impact will be felt heavily across Odisha. The IMD has issued a Red Alert for five southern districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri—for October 28, warning of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm and wind speeds of 50 to 60 km/h.
IMD Forecast and Landslide Warnings
IMD Director General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that wind speeds in Odisha will begin rising on October 27, reaching 40 to 50 km/h, and will surge to 60 to 70 km/h in southern districts by the night of October 28.
Rainfall will begin on the evening of October 27, with the maximum impact expected on October 28. Certain areas could witness intense downpours ranging between 20 and 30 cm, raising severe concerns of landslides in hilly regions. The torrential rains and strong winds are also expected to cause significant damage to standing paddy crops, uproot trees, and damage kutcha or temporary structures.
State Preparedness and Safety Measures
Aiming for zero casualties, the Odisha state government has activated extensive disaster response preparations:
- Disaster Response Deployment: Around 60 ODRAF units, 17 NDRF teams, and 225 Fire Services teams have been put on high alert.
- Educational Institution Closures: Schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centers in the five affected districts will remain closed on October 28 and 29.
- Government Personnel: Leaves for essential government staff in vulnerable districts have been canceled.
- Evacuations & Shelters: Cyclone shelters are fully equipped, and local administrations are prepared to evacuate residents from high-risk zones if necessary.
- Fishermen Advisory: Fishermen have been strictly instructed not to venture into the sea.
Authorities urge citizens to follow official advisories, stay clear of unverified rumors, and cooperate with local administration to ensure safety during the storm.
