A well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue alerts for several districts in coastal and southern Odisha. The system is gaining strength and may intensify further into a deep depression within the next 24 hours.
Cyclone Montha Path and Forecast
According to IMD officials, the depression is currently moving in a west-northwest direction, though its exact landfall location is yet to be confirmed. Preliminary forecasts suggest that coastal Andhra Pradesh may experience the most significant impact, while Odisha will likely face heavy to very heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and localised thunderstorms.
Districts Under Weather Alert
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has issued the following alerts:
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October 27: Yellow alert for Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri.
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October 28: Orange alert for Cuttack, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Khordha, Puri, and Ganjam.
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October 29: Orange alert for Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Bhadrak.
IMD has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas, with wind speeds expected to reach 60–70 kmph.
Fishermen and Coastal Safety Advisory
Authorities have advised fishermen not to venture into the sea starting October 26, as rough to very rough sea conditions are likely over the west-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas. Coastal residents are urged to stay updated with official weather bulletins and follow safety advisories issued by local administrations.
Expected Improvement After October 30
The weather system is expected to weaken gradually from October 30 as it moves inland. However, low-lying and coastal regions may still experience waterlogging or localised flooding due to persistent rainfall.
Precautionary Measures
Authorities have mobilized disaster response teams in vulnerable areas, and residents are encouraged to:
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Stay indoors during heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
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Avoid waterlogged areas and weak structures.
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Follow updates from IMD and local authorities.
The IMD continues to closely monitor Cyclone Montha’s progression and will issue further updates as the system evolves.
