Cyclone Montha Intensifies: Andhra and Odisha on High Alert as IMD Warns of Heavy Rain and Storm Surge
Cyclone Montha Intensifies: Andhra and Odisha on High Alert as IMD Warns of Heavy Rain and Storm Surge
Cyclone Montha intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, prompting evacuations in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha as IMD warns of heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha as Cyclone Montha intensifies into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal. The storm is expected to make landfall near Kakinada between Monday night and Tuesday morning, packing winds of 90–110 km/h and bringing torrential rainfall to large parts of the eastern coastline.
Evacuation and Emergency Measures Underway: Cyclone Montha Intensifies
The governments of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have launched large-scale evacuation drives to relocate residents from low-lying areas to safer shelters. Over 40,000 people have already been moved to relief camps in East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, and Srikakulam districts.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu held an emergency meeting on Sunday night, instructing officials to ensure zero casualties. “Our priority is saving lives. District collectors and NDRF teams are working round-the-clock,” he said.
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The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have deployed more than 25 teams across vulnerable coastal areas. The Indian Navy has positioned ships and helicopters in Visakhapatnam for rapid rescue and relief operations.
Schools Closed, Flights and Trains Disrupted
As a precautionary measure, schools and colleges in several coastal districts have been closed for the next two days. Train services between Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar have been curtailed, and at least 15 flights were canceled at Visakhapatnam International Airport due to strong crosswinds.
Ports in Kakinada, Paradip, and Gopalpur have been advised to suspend fishing operations, while the IMD has warned fishermen not to venture into the sea until further notice.
IMD Forecast and Path of the Cyclone: Cyclone Montha Intensifies
According to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Cyclone Montha intensified rapidly due to warm sea surface temperatures exceeding 29°C and favorable wind conditions. “The system is moving northwestwards and will likely cross the Andhra–Odisha coast near Kakinada by early Tuesday morning,” Mohapatra said in a media briefing.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted over north coastal Andhra Pradesh, south coastal Odisha, and adjoining Telangana. Wind speeds may reach up to 110 km/h, accompanied by storm surges of up to 1.5 meters, posing a serious threat of coastal flooding.
Power and Communication Preparations
Power utilities have set up emergency response units to restore electricity in case of outages. Telecom providers are also on alert to maintain connectivity during the storm.
In Visakhapatnam, authorities have stockpiled food, drinking water, and medical supplies in over 500 relief centers. Medical teams and mobile hospitals have been dispatched to cyclone-prone villages.
The Indian Railways has stationed engineering teams with cranes and generators at key junctions to ensure the rapid restoration of rail services once the cyclone subsides.
Climate Experts Warn of Stronger Cyclones Ahead: Cyclone Montha Intensifies
Meteorologists say Cyclone Montha is another reminder of the increasing frequency of severe cyclones in the Bay of Bengal, attributed to rising sea surface temperatures linked to global climate change.
Dr. Roxy Mathew Koll of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology noted, “Cyclones forming over the Bay of Bengal are gaining intensity faster than before. Climate models indicate this trend will continue.”
Environmentalists are urging stronger coastal management policies, mangrove restoration, and early warning systems to minimize future damage.
Public Advisory and Safety Instructions
The IMD and local authorities have issued the following advisories:
- Stay indoors and avoid coastal areas.
- Disconnect electrical appliances during heavy lightning.
- Keep emergency kits ready with flashlights, drinking water, and first-aid.
- Follow official updates from IMD, NDRF, and the local administration.
Conclusion: Preparedness is Key
As Cyclone Montha approaches landfall, the eastern coast braces for yet another climate challenge. However, early warnings, better coordination between disaster agencies, and proactive citizen response may help minimize casualties and damage this time.
India’s evolving disaster response framework — honed through past cyclones like Fani, Titli, and Yaas — is once again being put to the test. For millions along the Bay of Bengal, the next 24 hours will be crucial.
