IMD issues cyclone alert for Andhra Pradesh and Odisha coasts

Parts of the states of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha were on alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a cyclone alert for the Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts. A depression over the east-central Bay of Bengal is intensifying and is forecast to strengthen into a very severe cyclonic storm before crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam.

According to the IMD, the system was expected to become a cyclonic storm, strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm, and reach very severe cyclonic status by Wednesday morning. The storm is projected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast by Wednesday forenoon, bringing maximum sustained wind speeds of 115 to 125 kilometres per hour, with gusts up to 140 kilometres per hour.

Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Prepare for Cyclone Rescue

Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V. Anitha asked officials in cyclone-affected districts to remain on high alert, remove dangerous hoardings, and keep National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams ready for rescue operations. She stated that people in coastal areas should be shifted to safer places if necessary.

Meanwhile, the Odisha Government intensified its cyclone preparedness by placing 302 rescue teams on standby and directing the evacuation of people from low-lying areas to safe shelters. To deal with the incoming severe weather, authorities ordered the closure of educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres, in five southern districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri—on Wednesday and Thursday.

Heavy Rainfall Threatens Crops in Odisha and West Bengal

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in southern Odisha, raising serious concerns over standing paddy, vegetable crops, and other agricultural activities. Farmers face the immediate risk of paddy lodging, waterlogging, and severe damage to standing vegetables, prompting authorities to focus heavily on crop protection and the rapid restoration of essential services.

Further north, the Met department reported that parts of West Bengal, specifically South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Bankura, and Purulia, are also likely to receive heavy rainfall between October 28 and 30 as the Bay of Bengal system continues its progression.