Cyclone Montha Intensifies – Coastal States on Red Alert
Cyclone Montha is rapidly intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for five states. The cyclone is expected to make landfall within 48 hours, bringing torrential rain (20-30 cm), storm surges (2 meters), and winds up to 140 km/h. Authorities are urging residents in high-risk zones to evacuate immediately.
States Under Threat – Full List
IMD has placed these states on maximum alert:
- Odisha – Puri, Ganjam, Kendrapara districts at highest risk. 50,000+ evacuated.
- Andhra Pradesh – Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam on flood watch. NDRF teams deployed.
- West Bengal – South 24 Parganas & Sundarbans face storm surge threats. Kolkata to see heavy rain.
- Tamil Nadu – Northern coasts, including Chennai, may get isolated heavy showers.
- Jharkhand & Chhattisgarh – Inland districts brace for post-landfall flooding.
IMD Weather Forecast & Dangers
- Landfall: Expected near Odisha-Andhra border by [date]
- Peak winds: 120-140 km/h (power outages likely)
- Rainfall: 20-30 cm in 24 hours (flash flood risk)
- Sea conditions: Rough waves (3-5 meters), fishermen warned
Emergency Preparations Underway
- NDRF/SDRF: 200+ teams stationed in Odisha, Andhra, Bengal.
- Travel bans: Flights/trains suspended along the coast.
- Public advisories:
- Stock 3-day food, water, medicines.
- Avoid beaches, riverbanks.
- Use helpline numbers: [Add state-wise contacts].
Why Is the Bay of Bengal Prone to Cyclones?
Warming sea temperatures have increased cyclone intensity. Since 2020, 5 major cyclones (Amphan, Yaas, etc.) have hit this region, causing $14B+ in damages. Improved early warnings now save lives, but infrastructure remains vulnerable.
Key Safety Tips
✔ Charge devices – Power cuts expected.
✔ Secure loose objects – Prevent wind damage.
✔ Follow IMD alerts – Updates every 3 hours.
Real-time tracking: [Embed live IMD radar link if possible].
