Cyclone Montha is rapidly approaching the eastern coast of India, poised to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh today evening or night with formidable wind speeds ranging between 90 and 100 kilometers per hour, while the impending severe cyclonic storm has prompted urgent high-level reviews and extensive preparatory measures across several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, all bracing for its significant impact. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally took stock of the situation, engaging in a telephonic conversation with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to discuss the state's preparedness and response strategy for the anticipated natural calamity.
Government Preparedness and High-Level Review
In light of the intensifying cyclonic threat, Prime Minister Modi assured Chief Minister Naidu of full central assistance and support. Following this, Chief Minister Naidu convened an emergency meeting with top state officials, instructing them to implement immediate actions to safeguard lives and minimize property damage in coastal areas, while he emphasized the importance of a proactive approach, stressing that every possible measure should be taken to ensure the safety of residents and critical infrastructure. The state administration has been directed to remain on high. Alert, with continuous monitoring of the cyclone's trajectory and intensity.
Evacuation Efforts and Disaster Response Teams
As Cyclone Montha draws nearer, evacuation efforts have commenced in earnest, particularly along vulnerable coastal stretches. In Puri, Odisha, local authorities and police teams have initiated the process of clearing beach areas, advising residents and tourists to move away from the shoreline, while fishermen have been strictly warned against venturing into the sea, with all fishing activities suspended until further notice. Odisha's government has also declared a 'Red Alert' for eight southern districts, where preparations are underway to evacuate people from low-lying and sensitive locations. Complementing these efforts, the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been mobilized and placed on high alert in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, ready to undertake rescue and relief operations.
Anticipated Impact and Weather Forecast
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that Cyclone Montha is likely to intensify into a 'severe' cyclonic storm before making landfall. According to G, while n. R. S. Srinivas Rao, an official from IMD Hyderabad, the cyclone is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, specifically around the Kakinada region, by Tuesday evening or night, while during this period, most districts in Andhra Pradesh are predicted to experience extremely heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds, leading to potential widespread disruption. The meteorological department is continuously tracking the storm's movement and providing updated advisories to state disaster management authorities.
Wider Regional Effects and Initial Casualties
Beyond the primary landfall zone, the effects of Cyclone Montha are being felt across a broader region, while kerala has already experienced significant heavy rainfall and strong winds over the past day, leading to waterlogging in several low-lying areas. Tragically, in Alappuzha district, a fisherman lost his life when his boat. Capsized due to the turbulent sea conditions caused by the strong winds. Similar reports of strong winds are emerging from coastal areas of Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and. West Bengal, where residents are being urged to remain indoors and take all necessary precautions. Power outages and disruptions to transportation are also anticipated as the storm progresses.
The situation remains critical, with authorities urging public cooperation in adhering to safety guidelines and evacuation orders. The collective efforts of central and state governments, along with disaster relief agencies, are focused on mitigating the impact of Cyclone Montha and ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected populations.
