Cyclone Arnab, which developed from a deep depression in the eastcentral and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal, is anticipated to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh on October 28. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported on October 26 that the storm was located approximately 590 km northwest of Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman Islands and 610 km southeast of Gopalpur in Odisha. At 5:30 am on the same day, the storm was situated around 650 km east-southeast of Visakhapatnam, with additional distances noted from Kakinada, Machilipatnam, and Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh.

The IMD forecasts that Cyclone Arnab is likely to move west-northwest and strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm by midnight on October 26. The storm is expected to further intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm by October 27, with its trajectory projected to lead it towards the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts. The storm is anticipated to cross the coastline between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of October 28, bringing with it sustained wind speeds of 115-125 kmph and gusts reaching up to 140 kmph.

As the cyclone approaches, the IMD continues to monitor its development closely, providing updates on its path and intensity. Residents in the affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and heed official warnings regarding safety measures and preparedness.

Odisha Government Implements Precautionary Measures

In response to the impending threat of Cyclone Arnab, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has assigned eight ministers to oversee cyclone preparedness across various locations in the state. The government has identified Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Nabarangpur as districts at high risk. Administrative resources have been mobilised to ensure readiness for any emergencies that may arise as the cyclone approaches.

Disaster response teams have been deployed to vulnerable areas, and district officials have been instructed to prioritise public safety, including evacuation plans and emergency response strategies. The state government has cancelled leave for employees in the identified districts and established control rooms to coordinate rescue and relief efforts. These measures aim to mitigate the impact of the cyclone and ensure the safety of residents.

Despite the cyclone’s forecast to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh, the Odisha government has reiterated its commitment to a zero-casualty approach. Residents are urged to follow official advisories for their safety and to stay informed about the evolving situation.

Educational Institutions and Activities Suspended in Odisha

As a precautionary measure, schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres in six vulnerable districts of Odisha will be closed on October 28 and 29. The affected districts include Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Nabarangpur, where authorities have heightened their preparedness efforts to reduce the potential impact of Cyclone Arnab.

The IMD’s forecasts indicate that the cyclone may affect parts of Odisha as it moves inland. In light of this, the state government has mobilised disaster response teams, prepared cyclone shelters, and initiated precautionary evacuations in areas deemed at risk. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official government announcements regarding weather conditions and safety protocols.

Furthermore, the Odisha government has imposed a ban on sea fishing and restricted tourist access to scenic locations, including hills and waterfalls, in the six vulnerable districts. These restrictions are part of the state’s comprehensive strategy to ensure public safety as Cyclone Arnab approaches. Authorities are actively preparing for potential evacuations from low-lying areas and have positioned rescue teams to respond swiftly to any emergencies that may arise.

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