Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘Montha’ Barrels Toward Andhra Pradesh Coast: Red Alert Issued for South Odisha
Bhubaneswar, 28 Oct– In a rapidly developing weather crisis, the Severe Cyclonic Storm “Montha” (pronounced Mon-Tha) is intensifying over the west-central Bay of Bengal, posing an imminent threat to India’s eastern seaboard.
As of 8:30 AM IST today, the storm has shifted north-northwest at 12 kmph over the past six hours, centring itself at approximately 14.9°N latitude and 82.9°E longitude.
According to the latest bulletin from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is positioned about 160 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, 240 km south-southeast of Kakinada, 320 km south-southwest of Visakhapatnam, and 530 km south-southwest of Gopalpur in Odisha.
A Red Message cyclone warning has been hoisted specifically for the south Odisha coasts, urging immediate evacuations and heightened preparedness amid fears of heavy rainfall, storm surges, and gale-force winds.
Path of Destruction: Evening Landfall Expected
Meteorologists warn that “Montha” will maintain its north-northwest trajectory, making landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam—near Kakinada—sometime this evening or night. At the point of crossing, the storm is forecasted to unleash maximum sustained wind speeds of 90-100 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 110 kmph. This classification as a severe cyclonic storm signals potential for significant damage, including uprooted trees, power disruptions, and flooding in low-lying areas.
The IMD’s tracking data underscores the storm’s proximity to key coastal hubs, placing millions at risk. Andhra Pradesh districts from Nellore to Srikakulam, along with neighbouring Odisha’s southern regions, are bracing for the onslaught. Early morning satellite imagery reveals a well-defined eye wall, with swirling cloud bands extending outward, fueling the cyclone’s ferocity.
Urgency for Coastal Communities
Authorities in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have activated emergency protocols. Fishing boats have been advised to remain docked, and coastal residents are being urged to move to safer inland shelters. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed teams to vulnerable hotspots, while schools, colleges, and non-essential services face closures.“Montha” formed earlier this week from a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal, a region notorious for spawning devastating cyclones during the post-monsoon season. Climate experts note that warming sea surface temperatures may be contributing to the storm’s rapid intensification, echoing the destructive paths of cyclones like Amphan in 2020.
Residents are advised to monitor IMD updates via official channels and adhere to evacuation orders. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected along the coast, with isolated spots potentially receiving over 200 mm in 24 hours, exacerbating flood risks.
As “Montha” closes in, the focus remains on minimising loss of life and property. This is a developing story; further updates will follow as the situation evolves. Stay safe, Andhra and Odisha.
