Cyclone Montha: India on High Alert as Severe Cyclonic Storm Approaches Bay of Bengal Coast
The eastern coast of India is once again bracing for nature’s fury as Cyclone Montha churns over the Bay of Bengal, intensifying rapidly into a severe cyclonic storm. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system is expected to make landfall today, bringing torrential rains, fierce winds, and the potential for dangerous storm surges along Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana.
At 11:30 PM on October 27, the cyclone was positioned near latitude 14°N and longitude 83.5°E, roughly 280 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam, 360 km south-southeast of Kakinada, and 410 km south of Visakhapatnam. The storm’s sustained winds have reached 90–100 km/h, with gusts up to 110 km/h, and it continues to strengthen.
What Makes Cyclone Montha a “Severe Cyclonic Storm”?
Cyclones in the Indian Ocean are categorized based on their wind speed and central pressure. According to IMD classification:
| Category | Wind Speed (km/h) | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Depression | 31–49 | Early-stage systems |
| Deep Depression | 50–61 | Developing cyclones |
| Cyclonic Storm | 62–88 | Moderate intensity |
| Severe Cyclonic Storm | 89–117 | Cyclone Montha |
| Very Severe Cyclonic Storm | 118–165 | Hudhud, Fani |
| Super Cyclone | >221 | Odisha Super Cyclone (1999) |
Cyclone Montha clearly falls under the “severe” category, which means extensive damage to structures, trees, power lines, and low-lying areas is likely if precautions aren’t taken in time.
IMD’s Official Statement: The Latest Update on Cyclone Montha
The IMD’s latest bulletin warns that Cyclone Montha will likely make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam — close to Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, by the evening or night of October 28.
“A storm surge of about 1 meter above astronomical tide is expected, which may inundate low-lying areas of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam around the landfall time,” IMD said in its advisory.
The department has also confirmed that moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal are feeding the cyclone, causing it to strengthen as it moves northwestward.
Weather Today: IMD Issues Red Alerts for Heavy Rains in Andhra, Odisha, Telangana as Cyclone Montha Nears Landfall
The IMD has sounded red alerts — the highest level of weather warning — for Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana, urging people to remain indoors, avoid coastal areas, and follow evacuation advisories issued by local authorities.
Red Alert in Andhra Pradesh: Districts on Edge
Several Andhra Pradesh districts are on red alert due to the approaching Cyclone Montha:
- Vizianagaram
- Visakhapatnam
- Anakapalli
- Kakinada
- Yanam
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema
- West Godavari
The state government has activated emergency response teams and issued evacuation orders for vulnerable coastal villages.
Chief Minister’s office confirmed that fishing operations are suspended, and schools and offices near the coastline have been instructed to remain closed until further notice.
Odisha Braces for Impact: Red Alert in Multiple Districts
Odisha’s southern districts are expected to face heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, along with wind speeds of 70–90 km/h.
The IMD has placed Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, and Ganjam under a red alert.
“Residents of low-lying and flood-prone areas must relocate immediately. Flash floods and landslides are highly possible in hilly terrains,” said Odisha Special Relief Commissioner in a late-night statement.
Telangana Weather Alert: Heavy Rainfall Expected
While Cyclone Montha will make landfall further east, Telangana will experience intense rainfall and thunderstorms due to the system’s wide rainbands.
Districts such as Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, and Mahabubabad are on red alert, with IMD warning of gusty winds (40–50 km/h) and lightning.
Orange and Yellow Alerts: Warnings for Surrounding States
Apart from the red-alert zones, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka have been placed on orange and yellow alerts respectively.
This classification signals moderate rainfall and wind hazards, particularly for Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, and Villupuram in Tamil Nadu.
Expected Rainfall Pattern by IMD
According to the IMD’s detailed forecast:
| State/Region | Date Range | Rainfall Type |
|---|---|---|
| Rayalaseema, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Mahe, Coastal Karnataka | Oct 28 | Heavy to very heavy |
| Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Telangana, Odisha, Chhattisgarh | Oct 29–30 | Heavy to extremely heavy |
Cyclone Montha Landfall Timing and Location
Cyclone Montha is forecasted to make landfall this evening or night (October 28) near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh.
The impact zone lies 200 km from Odisha’s Malkangiri. Post-landfall, the system is expected to weaken into a deep depression, moving northwestward across Telangana and Chhattisgarh.
How Dangerous Is Cyclone Montha for Coastal Areas?
Quite serious. The IMD predicts a storm surge of 1 meter, which could flood low-lying coastal areas such as Kakinada, Yanam, Amalapuram, and Konaseema. Additionally, rough sea conditions, with waves reaching up to 4–5 meters, make it unsafe for maritime activities.
IMD’s Emergency Preparedness Measures
- Deployment of NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) and SDRF teams across coastal districts
- Temporary shelters established for evacuees
- 24-hour helplines set up in state control rooms
- Continuous radar monitoring via Doppler systems in Machilipatnam and Visakhapatnam
Air and Rail Travel Disruptions Due to Cyclone Montha
Several flights from Visakhapatnam Airport have been canceled or delayed, while railway services between Vijayawada, Kakinada, and Bhubaneswar are experiencing disruptions due to heavy rain and track obstructions.
Ports and Fishermen Advisories
The Directorate General of Shipping has warned all fishing boats to return to shore immediately.
Ports in Kakinada, Krishnapatnam, and Gangavaram have been placed on high alert, with cargo operations suspended.
Cyclone Montha and Climate Change: A Worrying Trend?
Experts believe the frequency and intensity of cyclones in the Bay of Bengal are rising due to warming sea surface temperatures.
According to scientific studies (see Wikipedia on Tropical Cyclones), warm oceans provide more energy for storm formation, leading to rapid intensification — just like Cyclone Montha.
Government’s Response and Relief Measures
The Union Home Ministry has coordinated with NDMA to ensure rapid deployment of relief supplies.
Andhra Pradesh and Odisha governments have set up control rooms, pre-positioned power restoration teams, and arranged emergency medical units.
Public Advisory: What Should You Do During Cyclone Montha?
Do’s:
- Stay indoors and away from windows
- Keep flashlights, batteries, and emergency food ready
- Listen to local radio/TV updates
- Evacuate if advised by authorities
Don’ts:
- Don’t travel unnecessarily
- Avoid open areas or trees
- Don’t use electrical appliances during lightning
What Happens After Landfall?
Post landfall, Cyclone Montha will weaken gradually but still bring intense rain over central India — especially Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Bihar by October 30.
Farmers have been advised to delay harvesting and store produce safely.
Impact on Power and Communication Networks
As seen during previous cyclones like Fani (2019) and Yaas (2021), power outages and communication disruptions are common.
Authorities are working to ensure backup generators and emergency communication systems remain functional.
Schools, Offices, and Public Transport Affected
In Andhra and Odisha, schools, colleges, and offices have been closed for two days.
Public buses have been rerouted, and ferry services between coastal towns have been suspended.
Health Concerns After Cyclones
Standing water after heavy rains can trigger waterborne diseases.
The Health Department is deploying teams to monitor possible outbreaks of dengue, malaria, and cholera.
Local Voices: Residents React to Cyclone Montha
“We’ve stocked essentials and sealed windows. We remember what Hudhud did, so we’re not taking chances this time,” says Rama Devi, a resident of Kakinada.
International Aid and Monitoring
Organizations like the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) are closely tracking the cyclone.
Neighboring countries — Bangladesh and Myanmar — are also monitoring the system for any secondary impacts.
FAQs on Cyclone Montha
1. When will Cyclone Montha make landfall?
It is expected to make landfall near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, by the evening or night of October 28.
2. Which states are under red alert?
Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana are under red alert for heavy rainfall and strong winds.
3. What precautions should people take?
Stay indoors, follow official advisories, avoid traveling, and keep emergency supplies ready.
4. Will Cyclone Montha affect air travel?
Yes, several flights in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada have been canceled or delayed due to bad weather.
5. How strong are Cyclone Montha’s winds?
Current wind speeds are 90–100 km/h, with gusts up to 110 km/h.
6. Is Cyclone Montha linked to climate change?
Experts believe warming ocean temperatures contribute to stronger, more frequent cyclones in the Bay of Bengal.
Conclusion: Stay Safe and Informed
As Cyclone Montha nears landfall, preparedness and vigilance are key. The IMD’s red alerts for Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana highlight the seriousness of this event.
Citizens are urged to stay indoors, follow official advisories, and remain calm as authorities continue to monitor and respond.
Nature’s power is unstoppable — but human readiness can make all the difference.
