Cyclone Montha to Hit Andhra Coast: Red Alert Issued

Coastal Andhra and Odisha brace for heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flooding as the storm nears landfall.

A powerful tropical storm is fast approaching the Andhra coast. It will likely make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kakinada on October 28. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns that the storm could intensify into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching 110 kmph.

Red Alert and Swift Action

Both Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha are on red alert. Authorities have swung into action to prevent casualties. Rescue teams are moving people from low-lying and coastal villages to safer locations before the cyclone strikes.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered district officials to maintain constant communication and act immediately on distress calls. He also directed them to ensure uninterrupted supply of essentials. Therefore, schools in Kakinada, East Godavari, Konaseema, Eluru, and West Godavari districts will remain closed from October 27 to 31.

So far, officials have shifted over 6,000 residents to relief camps. In Konaseema, medical teams have moved pregnant women to hospitals for safe care. Consequently, all shelters now have food, clean water, and medical supplies ready.

Government on High Alert

The state machinery continues to operate at full speed. NDRF and fire service personnel are working across vulnerable zones with heavy equipment. Fuel stations have increased their reserves, while telecom firms have installed backup generators to avoid network disruptions.

Moreover, ports and fisheries have stopped operations to prevent accidents. Over 21,000 boats, including 2,000 trawlers, have returned to shore. Officials have clearly advised fishermen to stay away from the sea until further notice.

Odisha Strengthens Its Defenses

Although the cyclone may not directly strike Odisha, its southern districts could experience torrential rain and strong winds. The government has marked eight districts as high-risk zones and dispatched over 120 disaster response teams.

In addition, all government employees are on duty. Control rooms are running round the clock, and hospitals have stocked up on medicines and fuel. As a result, emergency systems are now fully functional.

Residents Stay Prepared

Meanwhile, in Visakhapatnam, residents vividly recall the destruction caused by Cyclone Hudhud in 2014. Many families are buying essentials like food, water, and batteries. Apartment associations are testing generators and preparing first-aid kits.

Safety Tips for Citizens

• Stay indoors when the cyclone nears.

• Avoid coastal and flood-prone areas.

• Keep emergency kits ready with food, medicines, and flashlights.

• Charge mobile phones and power banks.

• Follow official alerts and cooperate during evacuation.

As Cyclone Montha moves closer, both states remain alert and organized. The next 48 hours are critical. With timely action, clear communication, and public cooperation, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha aim to reduce damage and safeguard lives.