Kochi: A depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, prompting authorities in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and other states to step up preparedness measures.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system formed over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal on October 24. It is forecast to intensify into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26, a severe cyclonic storm by October 27 and a very severe cyclonic storm before reaching the Andhra Pradesh coast. The system is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam around the forenoon of October 28, with sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph and gusts up to 140 kmph.
Also Read:
Andhra Pradesh and Odisha step up preparedness
The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority has warned people against lowering their guard as the system develops over the Bay of Bengal.
Odisha has also stepped up preparations, mobilising personnel and equipment in vulnerable areas. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed officials to prioritise public safety, evacuation and emergency response, with the state aiming for zero casualties.
The IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall in five Odisha districts — Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Rayagada and Malkangiri — from October 27. The state is also preparing for thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds as the system approaches the coast.
President Droupadi Murmu’s scheduled two-day visit to Odisha from October 28 has been postponed in view of the cyclone threat.
Cyclone warning signals at nine ports
Cyclone warning signals have been hoisted at nine ports in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, including Chennai, Nagapattinam and Cuddalore, after the low-pressure system intensified into a depression.
Authorities are monitoring the system’s movement and potential impact as it is forecast to strengthen and move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.
Heavy rain disrupts life in Keralam
Heavy rainfall continued to affect parts of Keralam, with waterlogging disrupting normal life in low-lying areas.
The IMD issued a red alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad districts on October 25. Educational institutions and tourist destinations, including adventure tourism and trekking locations, were ordered to close in the affected districts.
An orange alert was also issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Kottayam for three hours from 8 am.
Tamil Nadu floods wash away temporary bridge
In Tamil Nadu’s Krishnagiri district, flash floods washed away a temporary causeway bridge built by villagers across an irrigation canal near Sauttahalli Kottai village, close to Guduganahalli.
More than 100 families have been affected, with the loss of the crossing making it difficult for residents to access the village and travel for daily activities.
Heavy rain also caused waterlogging in parts of Mayiladuthurai district.
Jharkhand likely to receive rain on October 28–29
Jharkhand is expected to receive rainfall on October 28 and 29 under the influence of the developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal.
Isolated thunderstorms and lightning are likely in several places, with winds gusting up to 50 kmph, according to an official.
Authorities across the affected states are monitoring the system as it develops. The forecast track and intensity may change, making subsequent IMD updates important for assessing the likely impact.
