Tue Oct 28 01:10:00 UTC 2025: Headline: Cyclone Montha to Make Landfall in Andhra Pradesh; Odisha, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Brace for Impact
Kakinada, India – Coastal Andhra Pradesh is bracing for a direct hit from Cyclone Montha, expected to make landfall near Kakinada on Monday night as a severe cyclonic storm with winds reaching 110 kmph. Authorities have initiated mass evacuations and are on high alert, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi assuring full central assistance to the state.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports the cyclone was approximately 280 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam and 410 km south of Visakhapatnam late Sunday. Heavy rain and squally winds have already begun lashing the coastal belt, disrupting normal life in districts like Chittoor, Tirupati, and Kakinada.
In Chittoor, flooding from the Kushasthali river has severed key road links, prompting traffic diversions. Kakinada is experiencing severe coastal erosion, with seawater inundating villages like Uppada, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of families.
Neighboring Odisha is also preparing for the cyclone’s spillover impact, issuing a red alert for eight southern districts. Over 32,000 people are being evacuated from vulnerable areas, with 1,445 cyclone shelters established and rescue teams on standby. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari emphasized the state’s commitment to a “zero casualty” approach.
West Bengal is anticipating heavy rain and thunderstorms, particularly in southern districts, with potential wind speeds of 80-90 kmph. Coastal police are warning fishermen to return to shore.
Further south, Tamil Nadu has already experienced heavy showers. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has inspected flood-prone areas, assuring residents that the government is prepared to handle any further rainfall.
The cyclone has also impacted travel. Several flights between Visakhapatnam and Chennai have been cancelled, and train services have been disrupted. Passengers are advised to check their flight and train status before traveling. Authorities are urging residents in the affected regions to remain indoors and follow safety guidelines.
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