Cyclone Arnab is moving closer to the Andhra Pradesh coast. The Cyclone Arnab landfall is expected near Yanam on October 28. Officials say the storm may reach very severe strength before it crosses the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam.
At landfall, winds should blow at 115 to 125 km per hour. Gusts could reach 140 km per hour. Heavy to very heavy rain will also hit North Andhra and the central coastal districts. As a result, low-lying areas could see flooding.
The state government has acted quickly. It has released ₹27 crore to 20 districts for relief and evacuation work. Moreover, district collectors can draw on these funds for immediate needs.
Railways have also changed their plans. South Coast Railway has cancelled 53 trains within Andhra Pradesh that were due to run on October 27 and 28. In total, it has cancelled 61 trains. For example, the Visakhapatnam-Kirandul Night Express will not run from October 29 to November 4.
In addition, authorities have declared school holidays in several coastal districts. Officials are preparing evacuations from areas at risk and setting up relief centres with food, drinking water and medical supplies.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has ordered full preparedness. Meanwhile, 10 NDRF teams and 11 SDRF teams are ready for relief work. The storm may also affect Telangana and nearby states after landfall.
Residents of coastal districts should stay indoors, follow official advisories and avoid going to sea. Fishermen should not venture out until the warnings end.
