The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall across several districts in Odisha and Kerala. This warning comes as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal intensifies and approaches the eastern coast of India, particularly threatening Andhra Pradesh. Authorities are preparing for the potential impact of destructive winds and storm surges as the system is expected to make landfall on October 28.

The IMD’s latest bulletin indicates that the deep depression is projected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coastline between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam as a very severe cyclonic storm. Maximum sustained wind speeds are anticipated to reach between 115-125 kmph, with gusts potentially exceeding 140 kmph. The Odisha government has responded by issuing a red alert for five districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri—deeming them particularly vulnerable.

In these districts, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected, with isolated areas possibly receiving over 20 cm of rain. Additionally, surface winds are forecasted to reach speeds of 60-70 kmph. As a precaution, the Chief Minister of Odisha has ordered the closure of schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres in the affected districts for October 28 and 29.

Kerala Faces Disruptions Due to Heavy Rains

In Kerala, heavy rainfall has already caused significant disruptions, particularly in low-lying areas. The IMD issued a red alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad districts, indicating that these areas may receive over 20 cm of rain within a 24-hour period. In response to the severe weather, educational institutions and tourist attractions, including adventure tourism and trekking locations, have been closed in these districts.

Additionally, the IMD has issued an orange alert for ten other districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Idukki, while a yellow alert has been declared for Kasaragod. Strong winds, reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, are expected across the state, further complicating the situation.

The ongoing heavy rains have led to waterlogging and other issues, prompting local authorities to take swift action to ensure public safety. The situation remains dynamic as meteorological conditions continue to evolve.

Tamil Nadu Experiences Heavy Rains Amid Active Northeast Monsoon

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu is experiencing significant rainfall as the northeast monsoon remains highly active. The IMD has forecasted heavy to very heavy rain across various parts of the state on October 26 and 27, with conditions expected to ease to light or moderate showers on October 28. An official from the IMD clarified that while the cyclone in the Bay of Bengal may not directly impact Tamil Nadu, the state’s rainfall is influenced by a trough linked to a cyclonic circulation over the Southeast Arabian Sea and nearby Lakshadweep.

Significant rainfall has already been recorded, with Burliyar receiving 25 cm, while Devikapuram and Nedungunam reported 20 cm and 18 cm, respectively. The heavy downpours have resulted in severe landslips in the ghat sections of the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal, prompting the deployment of heavy machinery and sandbags for restoration efforts.

In Cuddalore district, disaster response teams successfully rescued nine workers stranded on an isolated patch of land due to rising water levels in a river. The situation in Tamil Nadu remains under close observation as authorities continue to monitor the weather conditions and respond accordingly.

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