Cyclone Montha Update: Approaching East Coast, Landfall Expected Near Andhra, Bengal to See Impact

Cyclone Montha Update: Approaching East Coast, Landfall Expected Near Andhra, Bengal to See Impact

Cyclone Montha is rapidly intensifying and moving toward India’s eastern coastline. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is expected to make landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday evening or night. Classified as a moderate cyclone, Montha could bring wind speeds of up to 110 km/h at the time of landfall.

Red Alert Issued for Coastal Districts

Due to the cyclone’s trajectory, red alerts have been issued for several coastal districts in Andhra Pradesh and at least eight districts in Odisha. The IMD has warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across both coastal and inland regions. Rescue and relief operations are already being prepared by the administrations of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

Impact on West Bengal

While the cyclone is expected to make landfall further south, its effects will be felt in parts of West Bengal. Light to moderate rainfall accompanied by gusty winds is forecasted for Kolkata, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, and Hooghly districts. The weather is likely to remain unstable for several days following landfall.

Precautionary Measures in Odisha

All 30 districts in Odisha have been placed on alert. Fishermen and coastal residents have been advised not to venture into the sea. Disaster response teams have been deployed, and residents of low-lying and flood-prone areas are being relocated to safe shelters. In Khordha and Puri districts, government employees' leaves have been canceled to ensure readiness.