Cyclone Montha Nears Andhra Coast, Fierce Winds and Heavy Rains Force Mass Evacuations and Shutdowns

Cyclone Montha: Cyclone Montha started its landfall process near Andhra Pradesh’s Kakinada late Tuesday. The storm, packing winds between 90 and 110 kmph, is expected to cross the coast within four hours. The Indian Meteorological Department reported its position close to Machilipatnam, Visakhapatnam, and Gopalpur. As Montha advanced, heavy rains and strong winds battered coastal districts, flooding streets and disrupting local transport. Officials warned people to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel for their safety.

What measures did Andhra take?

The Andhra Pradesh government imposed a night curfew in seven cyclone-hit districts, including Krishna, Kakinada, and East and West Godavari. From 8:30 pm until morning, all vehicle movement was suspended, except for medical emergencies. Police and district collectors were ordered to halt road traffic across highways and village routes. Authorities also urged citizens to stay indoors, keep emergency supplies ready, and follow official safety advisories closely.

How heavy is the rainfall?

Several areas have already recorded heavy rainfall. Machilipatnam logged 5.2 mm, Narsapur 9.8 mm, and Tuni 15.6 mm, while Nellore reported five to seven centimeters over the last 24 hours. Weather experts warn that heavy to very heavy rainfall will continue for the next 12 hours. Local monitoring teams remain on alert in both urban and rural areas to respond quickly to any flooding or storm-related emergencies.

Flights and trains disrupted?

Cyclone Montha has forced cancellations in air and rail travel. At Visakhapatnam airport, 32 flights were canceled, along with 16 in Vijayawada and four in Tirupati. The South Central Railway also suspended 120 trains passing through affected regions. Officials explained that these steps were taken to ensure passenger safety, as high winds and waterlogging make travel extremely dangerous. Restoration plans will be announced once conditions stabilize.

Any casualties reported?

Authorities confirmed at least one casualty in Konaseema district, where a falling tree killed a woman during fierce winds. Emergency rescue teams have been deployed in all critical zones. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) stationed 45 teams across Andhra Pradesh, ready for rescue and relief. These teams carry essential supplies and equipment to evacuate stranded residents and provide medical aid in disaster zones.

What about Odisha?

Neighboring Odisha is also on high alert, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announcing over 2,000 relief centers. More than 11,000 people have been shifted to shelters across eight districts. Schools and anganwadi centers remain shut until October 30. Tourism spots like Devmali hills and sea beaches have been closed. Fishermen were warned not to venture into the Bay of Bengal until further notice.

What lies ahead?

The IMD has issued red alerts for southern Odisha districts, predicting extremely heavy rainfall in Malkangiri, Koraput, and Gajapati. Orange alerts cover Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Khurda, while yellow warnings extend to Balasore, Mayurbhanj, and Sambalpur. The East Coast Railway has canceled or diverted several trains. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw held an emergency review with top officials, stressing on passenger safety, restoration planning, and close coordination with local administrations