CYCLONE MONTHA alert from Andhra to Odisha, wind speed may reach 110 kmph

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Cyclonic storm 'Montha', formed over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal, is moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the storm is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast as a severe cyclonic storm by tonight, October 28. It is expected to make landfall near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam.

Cyclone Mahina alert issued from Andhra to Odisha, storm speed could reach 110 km: The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) have issued a warning that as Cyclone 'Montha' intensifies into a severe form, sea waves of 2 to 4.7 metres high may occur in the coastal areas from Nellore to Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh. According to the joint bulletin, high waves may persist for six hours from 5:30 pm to 11:30 pm.

A massive evacuation is underway along the Andhra coast in anticipation of the cyclone's approach. The government has deployed 22 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to all potentially affected states.

The administration has completed preparations. Stockpiles of essential commodities and fuel have been stockpiled, drinking water supplies have been ensured and SDRF and NDRF teams are deployed. A 24-hour control room and 74 relief centers have been established. Communications systems have been kept active by installing generators on mobile towers. The public is being urged to remain vigilant, and helpline numbers have been issued.

Collector Office, Anakapalle: 08924222888, 08924226599, 08924225999

Revenue Divisional Officer Office, Anakapalle: 08924-223316

Revenue Divisional Officer Office, Narsipatnam: 08932-224420

According to the IMD, the cyclone will move north-northwestward and cross the Andhra coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around Kakinada tonight. Wind speeds will be 90 to 100 kmph gusting up to 110 kmph.

At the time of landfall, storm surges of up to one meter above the tidal level are expected in low-lying areas of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam leading to flooding. The Meteorological Department has warned of light to moderate rainfall with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in the affected areas until October 29. Authorities have advised people in low-lying and vulnerable areas to remain vigilant.

Under the influence of Cyclone 'Montha', moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra till October 30. The IMD has issued a 'yellow' alert, warning of thunderstorms and strong winds (40-50 kmph) in Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Wardha, Washim, Yavatmal, Bhandara, Gondia and Nagpur districts.

In view of the storm, Indian Railways has cancelled over two dozen trains and diverted several others to ensure passenger safety, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) said.

Due to continuous heavy rains in many areas of Tamil Nadu, district administrations have declared a holiday for schools and colleges in some areas on Tuesday, October 28. All educational institutions will remain closed in Chengalpattu and Cuddalore districts due to waterlogging. The Chennai administration has also declared a school holiday due to the heavy rains disrupting normal life.