The Cyclonic Storm ‘Montha’ over the west-central Bay of Bengal has intensified into a Severe Cyclonic Storm, with sustained winds reaching 90–100 kmph, gusting up to 110 kmph, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system, moving north-northwest at around 15 kmph, is expected to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, by Tuesday evening or night (October 28, 2025).
At 5:30 a.m., the IMD reported that the system lay centered approximately 190 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam, 270 km south-southeast of Kakinada, and 340 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam. The weather office has issued a red alert for 16 districts in Andhra Pradesh and a red warning for parts of Odisha and Yanam, urging fishermen and coastal residents to stay ashore and remain alert.
Evacuations Begin Across Coastal Andhra Pradesh
In Kakinada and Konaseema districts, which are expected to bear the brunt of Cyclone Montha, nearly 10,000 people have been shifted to designated rehabilitation centres, while 126 pregnant women were moved to hospitals for precautionary care.
Control rooms have been activated across coastal districts, with real-time coordination among the State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), IMD, and local administration. The CM emphasized that “no life should be lost” and directed that all power, communication, and water supply restoration teams be placed on standby for post-landfall operations.
Control Room Helplines for Andhra Pradesh
To ensure quick communication and emergency assistance, control room helplines have been established in several districts:
- Chittoor: 08572-242777 / 9491077325
- Nellore: 0861-2331261 / 7995576699
- Kakinada: 0884-2356801
- Bapatla: 0863-2234014
- Guntur: 0864-3220226
- YSR Kadapa: 08562-246344
The APSDMA has also urged citizens to use the ‘AP Disaster Alert App’ for verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed news through social media.
Visuals from Ground Zero: Visakhapatnam and Kakinada Brace for Impact
Heavy winds and intermittent rain have already been reported from Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, and Konaseema regions as the outer bands of the cyclone approach the coast. Fishermen have docked their boats, and power utilities are on alert for possible line disruptions.
At Visakhapatnam’s Fishing Harbour, authorities were seen relocating boats and fishing nets to safer locations. Residents have been advised to remain indoors and store essential supplies such as drinking water, dry food, and flashlights.
Odisha and Tamil Nadu Also Step Up Precautions
Meanwhile, the Odisha government has initiated evacuation measures in eight southern districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, and Malkangiri, which may experience heavy rainfall and strong winds. A “red alert” has been sounded in these regions as well.
In Chennai, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin reviewed Cyclone Montha preparedness at the Greater Chennai Corporation’s Command and Control Centre, overseeing measures to minimize potential impact from heavy rainfall and waterlogging.
Meteorological Outlook
According to IMD forecasts, Cyclone Montha is likely to maintain its severe intensity until landfall, after which it is expected to weaken gradually into a deep depression as it moves inland.
- Wind Speed: 90–100 kmph, gusting to 110 kmph
- Rainfall Warning: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in East and West Godavari, Konaseema, Kakinada, and Visakhapatnam districts.
- Sea Condition: Very rough to high; fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea until further notice.
Rescue and Relief Forces Deployed
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed strategically in all red-alert districts. Teams are equipped with inflatable boats, tree cutters, and medical kits. Power utilities, health departments, and fire services have also been placed on standby.
District administrations have identified temporary shelters, stocked food, and medical supplies, and ensured uninterrupted communication with control rooms for real-time coordination.
Public Safety Measures and Alerts
Citizens are urged to:
- Stay indoors during high winds and heavy rain.
- Keep emergency contact numbers ready.
- Follow official updates from IMD and APSDMA.
- Avoid rumor-based social media forwards.
Andhra Government appealed to the public to cooperate with officials during evacuation and relief operations, emphasizing that “timely action saves lives.”
Vigilance and Preparedness at the Forefront
As Cyclone Montha approaches the Andhra coast, the state’s preparedness from district administration to on-ground rescue forces reflects a proactive and coordinated approach to disaster management. The coming hours will be crucial, but with collective effort, Andhra Pradesh aims to ensure safety, resilience, and rapid recovery for all affected communities.
