Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal and is moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast landfall between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by the forenoon of October 28. The storm is expected to bring strong winds and heavy to extremely heavy rainfall to coastal areas.
According to the IMD, the cyclone was located around 260 kilometres southeast of Visakhapatnam in its October 27 morning bulletin. It was moving westwards at approximately 22 kmph. At landfall, the system is expected to bring sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph.
Authorities across Andhra Pradesh have stepped up precautionary measures to protect people in vulnerable coastal areas. According to reports, the state has established 2,199 cyclone shelters and begun evacuating residents from areas at risk. Emergency teams, including personnel from the National Disaster Response Force, are on standby to respond to flooding, wind damage and other emergencies. <escape></escape>
The cyclone is expected to cause heavy rainfall, rough seas and possible flooding in low-lying coastal areas. A storm surge of around 1–2 metres above the astronomical tide has been forecast in vulnerable locations, increasing the risk of coastal inundation. Several districts are under weather alerts, while transport services and school operations may be affected by the approaching storm.
Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to follow official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel and remain indoors during severe weather. Fishermen have also been warned not to venture into the sea. Residents should rely on the latest IMD bulletins and district administration announcements for updates on landfall timing, evacuation instructions and local safety measures.
