Cyclone Montha is set to hit the eastern coast of India today, prompting Andhra Pradesh and Odisha to remain on high alert as preparations intensify. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that Cyclone Montha has escalated into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal and is expected to make landfall near the port city of Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh by Tuesday evening or night.

The cyclone is currently positioned about 190 km southeast of Machilipatnam and around 270 km southeast of Kakinada. It is moving north-northwestward at approximately 15 kmph. The IMD forecast predicts sustained wind speeds of 90 to 100 kilometers per hour, with gusts up to 110 kmph, along with very heavy rainfall, particularly affecting 19 districts in Andhra Pradesh where red alerts have been issued.​

Due to the anticipated severity, Indian authorities have already taken precautionary actions, including the closure of schools and the evacuation of around 38,000 people from low-lying and vulnerable areas to relief camps. The Andhra Pradesh government has mobilized nearly 2,000 relief camps and several hundred school shelters to accommodate evacuees, while the Odisha administration has also heightened its preparedness with early warnings and evacuation efforts in coastal regions.​

The high winds and heavy rains are expected to cause flooding in coastal villages and disruption to transport, as several trains passing through Visakhapatnam have been cancelled, and flights from Vizag airport grounded as a safety measure. The cyclone has also led to rough sea conditions affecting many coastal areas, impacting fisherfolk who have been advised not to venture into the sea until the storm passes.​

Cyclone Montha's approach highlights the vulnerability of India's eastern coastline to cyclones during the months between April and December. While the region is accustomed to such storms, the level of devastation can vary, underlining the importance of early warning systems and timely evacuations. Past cyclones in this region have led to severe damage and loss of life, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance.​

From a broader perspective, the careful steps taken by state governments to minimize risks reflect lessons learned from past experiences. The focus remains on safeguarding lives and reducing material damage amid natural events that are part of the climatic patterns affecting this large coastal stretch. The coming 24 to 48 hours will be crucial as Cyclone Montha makes landfall and moves inland, with authorities closely monitoring the situation and providing updates to the public.

In summary, Cyclone Montha poses significant risks to Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, with strong winds, heavy rains, and flooding expected. The governments’ proactive measures of evacuations and preparations illustrate the serious approach to managing such natural disasters. Citizens in the affected zones are urged to stay alert and follow official instructions for their safety. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience and preparedness in cyclone-prone coastal regions.

With inputs from agencies

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