Cyclone Arnab Intensifies, Andhra Landfall Likely as South Odisha Braces for Impact

According to forecasts cited in the report, the cyclone’s sustained wind speed has increased significantly and is expected to strengthen further before landfall.

As of Tuesday morning, the system was located southeast of Visakhapatnam and east-southeast of Kakinada, moving westward over the Bay of Bengal.

The latest projections indicate that Cyclone Arnab is likely to cross the Konaseema-Yanam coast south of Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh with very strong winds, raising concerns about widespread damage in coastal areas.

While Odisha is not currently expected to face a direct landfall, weather experts have warned that several southern districts could experience the cyclone’s peripheral effects.

Districts such as Ganjam, Puri, Khurda and Gajapati are likely to witness cloudy skies, intermittent rainfall and gusty winds ahead of landfall.

The most significant impact within Odisha is expected in Malkangiri district after landfall, with forecasts indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Koraput, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Rayagada and Nuapada may also experience moderate to heavy rain accompanied by gusty conditions.

Meteorological agencies have stated that the cyclone is expected to weaken gradually as it moves inland across Andhra Pradesh toward southern Chhattisgarh.

By October 29, the system is likely to lose strength and transform into a low-pressure area.

Authorities have advised fishermen not to venture into the sea and urged residents in vulnerable areas to follow official weather updates and precautionary measures as the storm approaches the coast.

Based on current forecasts, southern Odisha is likely to face heavy rainfall rather than the devastating winds associated with a direct cyclone landfall.