Cyclone Alert / Cyclone Arnab’s Landfall to Take Two More Hours, Says IMD Chief; South Odisha Braces for Heavy Rain

Bhubaneswar, Oct 28: The landfall process of very severe cyclonic storm Arnab was continuing on Wednesday, with the storm’s leading edge having already entered the land, India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director-General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said.

The complete landfall process could take another two hours, as the cyclone continued to cross the coast, he said, warning that strong winds and heavy rainfall would persist in the affected areas.

Winds Up to 150 kmph

According to Dr. Mohapatra, the cyclone was generating sustained winds of 125-135 kmph, while gusts had reached speeds of up to 150 kmph.

Several places in Andhra Pradesh had recorded more than 25 cm of rainfall, while Odisha had also experienced heavy rain under the influence of the storm.

The cyclone’s impact was expected to continue even after the landfall process was completed, requiring people in vulnerable areas to remain cautious and follow instructions issued by the administration.

South Odisha on Alert

The IMD has warned of heavy winds and very heavy rainfall in several southern Odisha districts, including Gajapati, Ganjam, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur and Koraput.

Some places in these districts could receive more than 20 cm of rainfall, raising concerns over the potential impact of intense precipitation and strong winds.

Residents in vulnerable locations have been advised to remain alert and comply with instructions from local authorities until the cyclone’s effects subside.

Cyclone Likely to Weaken

Dr. Mohapatra said the system was expected to gradually weaken after crossing the coast. It could weaken into a depression by the evening of October 28, he added.

The forecast of gradual weakening does not mean that adverse weather conditions will end immediately. Heavy rainfall and strong winds may continue in affected areas as the system loses intensity.
Also Read: Cyclone Arnab’s Landfall Continues Along Andhra Coast, Says IMD

The IMD chief urged people to remain cautious until the impact of the cyclone had substantially reduced. Residents were advised to follow official directions and avoid unnecessary exposure to dangerous weather conditions.

With the landfall process still underway, authorities and residents in coastal Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha face a crucial period as the storm continues to affect the region.