Cyclone Montha has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm, sending India’s eastern states into high alert as authorities order mass evacuations, school closures, and red alerts across multiple coastal districts, according to AP News. The storm, which continues to gain strength in the Bay of Bengal, is forecast to make landfall near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, late Monday night or early Tuesday.
Thousands Evacuated as Landfall Nears
Disaster management teams have already evacuated tens of thousands of residents from low-lying and vulnerable coastal areas in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Temporary shelters have been set up to accommodate displaced families as officials urge people to stay indoors and avoid the coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that Montha could bring winds between 90–110 km/h, accompanied by torrential rainfall and storm surges.
Precautionary Measures in Full Swing
Authorities have suspended fishing operations and advised fishermen to return to shore immediately. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed teams in key districts, while the Indian Navy and Coast Guard remain on standby for emergency rescues. Power and communication systems are being reinforced to withstand potential outages.
“Safety is our top priority. We are ensuring all precautionary measures are in place to minimize damage,” said an Odisha disaster management official. Relief materials, including food supplies and medical kits, have been distributed in advance as part of the preparedness plan.
Heavy Rains and Flood Risks Expected
Meteorologists warn that Cyclone Montha’s slow-moving nature could worsen its impact, with heavy to extremely heavy rainfall expected across coastal Odisha and northern Andhra Pradesh. Flooding, wind damage, and storm surges may affect major cities including Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, and Puri. The IMD has issued advisories urging residents to remain indoors and comply with evacuation orders where applicable.
Preparedness and Ongoing Monitoring
State governments have activated emergency control rooms and are in constant coordination with national disaster agencies. The IMD continues to track the storm’s path using satellite data and warns that conditions could deteriorate rapidly as Montha nears landfall.
As the storm approaches, residents are being reminded to follow official updates and avoid misinformation circulating on social media. The next 24 hours are expected to be critical in determining the full extent of Cyclone Montha’s impact on India’s eastern coast.
