New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high alert for India’s eastern coast as Cyclone Montha intensifies over the Bay of Bengal. The states of Odisha and the northern coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh are bracing for extremely heavy rainfall and destructive winds, with the cyclonic storm projected to make landfall on Saturday, October 28th.
State governments have activated their emergency response protocols as the national weather agency warns of a significant threat to life and property.
Cyclone Montha: Path, Intensity, and Wind Speed
According to the latest IMD bulletin, Cyclone Montha is currently centered over the west-central Bay of Bengal and is tracking north-westwards. It is expected to strengthen into a ‘Severe Cyclonic Storm’ within the next 24 hours before crossing the coast between Gopalpur in Odisha and Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.
During landfall, wind speeds are predicted to reach 100-110 kmph, gusting up to 125 kmph. The IMD has issued a ‘Red Alert’ for several coastal districts in Odisha, including Ganjam, Puri, Gajapati, and Jagatsinghpur, signifying the highest level of warning. An ‘Orange Alert’ is in place for adjacent districts such as Khurda, Cuttack, and Kendrapara.
In Andhra Pradesh, the districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam are expected to bear the brunt of the cyclone’s fury.
How Are Odisha and Andhra Pradesh Preparing?
Both the Odisha and Andhra Pradesh governments have initiated robust precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of the cyclone. High-level meetings have been conducted to oversee disaster management preparedness.
Key actions being taken include:
- Disaster Response Deployment: Multiple teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) are pre-positioned in vulnerable districts.
- Mass Evacuations: Authorities are identifying low-lying areas and have begun evacuating residents to fortified cyclone shelters. The goal is to move lakhs of people from insecure housing to safer locations.
- Fishermen Warning: A complete ban on all fishing activities is in effect. Fishermen at sea have been urgently instructed to return to the coast.
- 24/7 Control Rooms: State and district-level control rooms are now active to monitor the cyclone’s movement and coordinate rescue and relief efforts.
Odisha‘s ‘Zero Casualty’ Policy in Action
Odisha‘s eastern coast has a history of facing devastating cyclones like Fani (2019) and Amphan (2020). This experience has helped the state develop a highly efficient ‘zero casualty’ policy, focusing on early warnings and mass evacuations that have saved countless lives. Authorities are leveraging this well-practiced protocol to face Cyclone Montha.
A major concern for both states remains the standing Kharif paddy crop, which is ready for harvest and faces extensive damage from the anticipated heavy rain and strong winds.
Cyclone Montha Safety: What You Need to Do
Residents in the affected regions are strongly advised to follow these safety precautions:
- Stay Informed: Monitor the latest weather updates from the IMD and official government channels.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Stock essentials like dry food, drinking water, medicines, a flashlight, and batteries.
- Secure Your Home: Fasten all doors and windows. Move valuable items and documents to higher ground.
- Stay Indoors: Avoid going outside during the storm. Stay clear of beaches and coastal areas.
- Verify Information: Do not believe or spread rumors. Rely only on credible sources for updates.
