Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: A deep depression has formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal and is likely to intensify into Cyclone Montha within the next 24 hours, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The weather system, which has been steadily gaining strength, is currently centered approximately 950 kilometers southeast of Gopalpur in Odisha and 840 kilometers southeast of Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh.

Over the past six hours, the system has been moving westward at a speed of 10 km/h, gradually intensifying from a low-pressure area into a depression and now a deep depression. The IMD forecasts that it will further strengthen into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 27, with landfall expected near Kakinada on October 28.

Key Forecast Highlights:
- Wind Speeds: Expected to reach 90–100 km/h, gusting up to 110 km/h.
- Rainfall: Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is likely in parts of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.
- Alerts Issued: Coastal districts are on high alert, and disaster response teams have been mobilized.

The Odisha government has already begun implementing precautionary measures, including cancelling leave for government employees in vulnerable districts and preparing cyclone shelters.

Also read: Cyclone Montha: Visitors Asked Not To Venture Into Puri Sea Till Oct 29

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and residents are urged to stay informed through official channels.

Authorities continue to monitor the system closely and will issue further updates as the situation develops.