Cyclone Montha: IMD Issues Red Alert for Andhra Pradesh and Odisha as Storm Intensifies over Bay of Bengal

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for parts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha as Cyclone Montha continues to intensify over the Bay of Bengal. What started as a low-pressure system has now developed into a cyclonic storm and is expected to strengthen further in the coming days. The storm is moving northwestwards and is likely to make landfall along India’s east coast early next week.

Cyclone Montha: Origin and Formation

According to IMD reports, Cyclone Montha formed from a low-pressure area over the east-central Bay of Bengal earlier this week. Under favorable atmospheric conditions — including warm sea surface temperatures and high humidity — the system rapidly intensified. By Thursday evening, it was officially named Cyclone Montha.

Expected Path and Landfall

Current predictions suggest that the cyclone will move northwestward, heading toward the Andhra Pradesh–Odisha coast. IMD models indicate that it could make landfall between Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh) and Puri (Odisha) around October 21 or 22, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. The exact point of landfall may shift depending on its trajectory over the next 48 hours.

IMD Issues Red Alert for Coastal States

The IMD has placed Andhra Pradesh and Odisha under red alert, warning of extremely heavy rainfall, tidal surges, and winds reaching up to 110–120 kmph. Neighboring regions, including West Bengal and northern Tamil Nadu, have been placed under orange alert due to possible heavy showers and gusty winds.

Preparedness Measures by State Governments

Both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha governments have activated disaster management teams and begun evacuation of people living in low-lying and coastal regions. Control rooms have been set up, and fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until further notice. Authorities are also ensuring that essential supplies — food, water, and electricity backup — are ready for affected districts.

Ports and Fishermen on High Alert

The Visakhapatnam, Paradip, and Kakinada ports have been asked to suspend all operations temporarily. The Coast Guard has deployed surveillance aircraft and ships to warn fishermen and assist in rescue operations if required. Local administrations are working to relocate fishing communities to safer shelters ahead of landfall.

Anticipated Impact on Coastal Areas

Cyclone Montha is expected to cause storm surges up to 1.5 meters, which could inundate coastal villages and farmlands. The IMD has warned of possible damage to power lines, thatched houses, and small boats, along with uprooting of trees. Residents near riverbanks and the coast have been urged to remain alert and follow official advisories closely.

Rail and Air Travel Disruptions

Preempting the cyclone’s impact, several trains and flights to and from Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, and Vijayawada may face delays or cancellations. The Indian Railways has activated emergency response units and stationed repair teams along vulnerable routes. Passengers have been advised to check updates before traveling.

Relief Agencies and NDRF Deployed

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed more than 30 teams across Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. These teams are equipped with rescue boats, medical kits, and communication tools. The Indian Navy and Air Force are also on standby for large-scale evacuation or relief missions if needed.

IMD’s Forecast: Cyclone to Weaken After Landfall

According to the IMD’s latest update, Cyclone Montha is likely to weaken into a deep depression after making landfall. However, it could still bring heavy to very heavy rainfall across interior districts of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand for the next 48 hours.

Conclusion

As Cyclone Montha approaches India’s eastern coastline, authorities are taking all necessary steps to minimize damage and ensure public safety. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay indoors during heavy rainfall, avoid coastal travel, and follow instructions from local officials. With proactive preparation and coordination among state and central agencies, India aims to handle the storm’s impact effectively.