Cyclone Arnab Landfall Expected Near Yanam
Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal, prompting emergency preparations along India’s eastern coast. Andhra Pradesh faces the expected landfall, while neighbouring Odisha is preparing for heavy rainfall and strong winds.
The cyclone is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by the forenoon of Wednesday, October 28. Maximum sustained winds at landfall are forecast at 115–125 kmph, gusting to 140 kmph. The forecast track and timing remain subject to updates.
Andhra Pradesh Evacuations And Shelters Prepared
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed departments to coordinate emergency measures, issue timely warnings and minimise disruption. Authorities have identified 1,763 cyclone shelters and prepared control rooms, rescue equipment and emergency water supplies.
Preparations include shifting 4,711 pregnant women from vulnerable areas to healthcare facilities. The state has released ₹27 crore to 20 districts, with ₹2 crore each allocated to seven priority districts and ₹1 crore each to the remaining 13.
Fifteen NDRF teams have been deployed at vulnerable locations. Educational institutions in affected areas have been closed, beach access restricted and arrangements made to move residents to safer locations.
Odisha Rescue Teams Mobilised As Schools Close
Odisha is preparing for heavy rain and strong winds despite being outside the expected landfall zone. Schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput and Nabarangpur are scheduled to remain closed on October 28 and 29.
Authorities have deployed 24 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force teams and six NDRF teams. Shelters and control rooms are being readied, while residents of low-lying and landslide-prone areas are being prioritised for assistance. Fishing restrictions and limits on access to vulnerable beaches, waterfalls, dams and other tourist locations form part of the precautions.
Train Cancellations Affect Coastal Travel
South Coast Railway has announced 53 train service cancellations for October 27 and 28. Affected routes include connections serving Vijayawada, Machilipatnam, Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry and other stations. Passengers should verify their train number and journey date through official railway updates before travelling.
Railway authorities are monitoring vulnerable infrastructure and preparing emergency maintenance resources. Residents should follow updated IMD bulletins and district instructions, as rainfall warnings, evacuation orders and transport arrangements may change as the cyclone approaches.
