Cyclonic Storm Arnab over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify further, raising concerns about heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several parts of India over the next few days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather warnings for Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, forecasting intense rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions as the storm approaches the coast.
According to the latest IMD bulletin issued on Monday, October 26, Cyclone Arnab was positioned over the east-central and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal. The system was moving westwards at a speed of around 15 kmph and is expected to turn northwestwards towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.
The IMD has forecast that the cyclone will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by the night of October 26 and further strengthen into a very severe cyclonic storm on October 27. It is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by the forenoon of October 28. Wind speeds may reach 115–125 kmph, with gusts of up to 140 kmph during landfall.
Andhra Pradesh Faces Heavy Rain and Strong Winds
Coastal Andhra Pradesh is likely to experience strong winds, rough to very rough sea conditions and intense rainfall as Cyclone Arnab approaches. The IMD has also warned of a possible storm surge of 1–1.5 metres above the astronomical tide, which could inundate low-lying coastal areas. Extremely heavy rainfall is forecast for October 27 and 28, followed by heavy rain on October 29. Thunderstorms and strong surface winds are also likely in several areas.
Odisha Under Alert for Extremely Heavy Rainfall
Odisha is also expected to face adverse weather conditions due to the approaching cyclone. According to the IMD forecast, several parts of the state may receive extremely heavy rainfall on October 27 and 28, followed by very heavy rain on October 29. The combination of intense rainfall and strong winds could disrupt normal activities in affected areas. Residents in vulnerable locations are advised to remain alert and follow official weather updates and instructions issued by local authorities.
