Cyclone Montha likely to strike Andhra Pradesh coast on Oct 28, NDRF, SDRF teams deployed

A deep depression formed over Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm Montha and is likely to make a landfall near Kakinada coast of Andhra Pradesh on October 28. The IMD predicted heavy rainfall alert for states like Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry. The wind speed is likely to remain around 90-100 kmph near the landfall site and the adjoining coastal areas.

The cyclone’s influence could extend from Srikakulam to Tirupati, potentially causing heavy rainfall of up to 100 mm in affected areas. Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu has directed police and administration officials to prepare extensively to minimize loss of life and property. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are on standby, with additional units ready for deployment in critical situations.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over Rayalaseema, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Mahe on October 27 and 28, and in Coastal Karnataka from October 26 to 28. Additionally, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are expected to experience heavy showers from October 26 to 30, while Telangana, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh will see heavy rainfall from October 27 to 30, as cyclone Montha intensifies and nears the Andhra Pradesh coast.

The IMD has advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea along the coasts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Puducherry from October 26 to 29. The IMD’s latest forecast indicates the deep depression is currently located 610 km west of Port Blair and 790 km east-southeast of Chennai.

In the past 24 hours ending 8:30 am on Saturday, Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli district recorded significant rainfall, with Oothu receiving 14 cm, Nalumukku 13 cm, and Kakkachi 11 cm, according to IMD data.