Disaster Preparedness / Odisha Fire Services Brace for Cyclone ‘Arnab’, Targets Zero Casualty

Bhubaneswar, Oct 24: With the looming threat of Cyclone Arnab, Odisha Fire Services have launched extensive preparations under “Operation Mukabila” to ensure the state government’s ambitious Zero Casualty target.

Current forecasts suggest the cyclone is advancing towards Kakinada, with the India Meteorological Department expected to release detailed trajectory maps on Saturday.

Wind speeds may reach up to 125 km/h, raising concerns of uprooted trees, damaged electricity poles, and widespread power disruptions. Heavy rainfall is predicted on October 27 and 28.

Also read: Bay of Bengal System to Turn into Deep Depression Tomorrow; Cyclone Likely by Monday

To counter the potential disaster, fire stations across six vulnerable districts — Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Nabarangapur, and Malkangiri — have been placed on high alert.

Personnel are equipped with inflatable boats, outboard motors, lifeboats, life jackets, high-capacity water pumps, hydraulic cutters, spreaders, first-aid kits, and searchlights to support rescue and relief operations.

Officials emphasize that preparations are primarily focused on tackling heavy rainfall and flooding. However, contingency measures are in place should the cyclone alter its course.

Weather Update

The IMD has warned of a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal that is expected to intensify rapidly. The low‑pressure area, which formed on Friday morning, is projected to strengthen into a depression by Saturday, a deep depression by Sunday, and a cyclonic storm by Monday morning.

According to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the exact landfall point and timing will be confirmed once the system consolidates further.

Current forecasts suggest the storm will move west‑northwestwards, heading towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coast, with a possible landfall on October 28 morning.