The IMD said Montha has wind speeds reaching up to 110 kmph and continues to strengthen. (Photo: ISRO)
Cyclone Montha has turned into a severe storm over the Bay of Bengal, lashing India’s eastern coastline with strong winds and heavy rain. The powerful storm is moving towards Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, where authorities have declared high alerts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the cyclone will make landfall near Kakinada later tonight.
Images from ISRO’s INSAT-3DR satellite show a huge swirling cloud system, with a dense eyewall forming as the storm gains strength. The visuals capture the cyclone’s full intensity as it moves inland. The IMD said Montha has wind speeds reaching up to 110 kmph and continues to strengthen.
The IMD has classified Montha as a “severe cyclonic storm.” It has issued red alerts for several coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Officials have warned of “very rough to high” sea conditions and storm surges that could flood low-lying areas. Waves have reached as high as 4.7 meters along parts of the Andhra coast.
Authorities have already evacuated thousands of people from at-risk villages. Many of the relocated include pregnant women, the elderly, and families from coastal and flood-prone areas.
Disaster management teams are on the ground to carry out relief and rescue operations. Temporary shelters have been set up, stocked with food, water, and medical aid. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police have been deployed for quick action as the storm approaches.
In Odisha, the southern districts are also under high alert. Officials there are preparing for possible flash floods and landslides due to the expected heavy rainfall.
Transport systems have already been affected. Dozens of trains in the Waltair region have been canceled or diverted. Several coastal airports have suspended flight operations as a precaution.
Ports have stopped all shipping and fishing activities, and fishermen have been warned to stay off the sea. Power supply departments are on standby, anticipating outages from falling trees and damaged power lines due to strong winds.
Cyclone Montha is expected to bring intense rain over the next 24 hours. Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha could face flash floods and waterlogging. Officials have asked residents to remain indoors, stay away from beaches, and follow government advisories.
The storm’s impact will continue to be closely monitored. ISRO’s satellites and ground-based weather stations are tracking every movement as Cyclone Montha approaches land. With the cyclone making landfall tonight, emergency teams and local authorities are working around the clock to keep people safe.
