As Cyclone Montha approaches the coast of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, several districts have started experiencing strong gusty winds and heavy rainfall since morning. With the cyclone likely to make landfall on Tuesday night, emergency measures have been taken. A total of 3,361 pregnant women in Andhra Pradesh and 2,693 pregnant women in Odisha—who have their due dates this week or are in advanced stages—have been shifted to hospitals.
Many districts of Andhra Pradesh such as Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, Konaseema, Krishna, West Godavari, and Vizianagaram have been receiving heavy rainfall since morning, accompanied by strong winds with speeds of up to 80 km per hour. Currently, all these districts are on red alert, and landfall can happen anytime between Machilipatnam and Kakinada. More than 10,000 people residing near coastal areas have been shifted to relief camps set up in government offices and schools.
What is the current position of the cyclone?
Cyclone Montha has intensified over the Bay of Bengal and is moving at a speed of 12 kmph, as per the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA). The current position of the cyclone is 160 km from Machilipatnam, 240 km from Kakinada, and 320 km from Visakhapatnam.
The cyclone is expected to make landfall between Kakinada and Machilipatnam on Tuesday night. Winds with speeds of 90 to 110 kmph are expected to accompany heavy rainfall during landfall. Power supply may be disrupted, and authorities have already deployed rapid response teams to restore essential services.
What preparations are in place in Andhra Pradesh?
A total of 242 medical camps have been opened, and 283 ambulances are on standby. Teams for debris clearance, heavy machinery, and rescue operations have already been positioned in coastal regions. 11 NDRF and 12 SDRF teams have been deployed for evacuation, flood response, and rescue operations.
Additionally, fire and emergency services have kept boats, life jackets, and rescue gear ready. Authorities have activated community kitchens to provide hot meals for children and senior citizens currently stationed at shelters. The government has issued an advisory to stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
