The severe cyclonic storm began its landfall near the coast of Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of extremely heavy rainfall, gusty winds and potential damage across coastal districts.
Landfall & Immediate Impacts
- Cyclone Montha, now classified as a severe cyclonic storm, started making landfall along the Andhra coast and is expected to cross between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam via Kakinada.
- Maximum sustained winds are around 90–100 km/h, with gusts up to 110 km/h.
- The landfall process is expected to persist for approximately 3-4 hours.
- Coastal districts like Kakinada, Krishna, East Godavari, West Godavari and Konaseema are under highest alert.
Preparedness Measures & Warnings
- The IMD has issued red alerts for 19 districts in Andhra Pradesh, advising evacuation of low-lying zones and sheltering as needed.
- Authorities have suspended vehicular movement in many districts from 8:30 pm-6:00 am as a precaution.
- Emergency response resources: 1,447 earth-movers, 321 drones, 1,040 chainsaws have been activated to clear uprooted trees and debris.
- Residents in low-lying zones advised to stay indoors, avoid travel and monitor official advisories.
Rainfall & Flood Risks
- Several areas recorded heavy rainfall: Ulavapadu (Nellore) 12.6 cm, Kavali 12.2 cm, Dagadarthi 12 cm, Singarayakonda 10.5 cm.
- A storm surge of about 1 metre above astronomical tide is expected in coastal Andhra, risking inundation of vulnerable villages.
- Farmers in flood-prone zones have been urged to drain excess water from paddy and vegetable fields in advance.
Significance & What to Watch
- The landfall of Cyclone Montha highlights the seasonal vulnerability of the east coast, where even moderate-category storms can cause heavy damage.
- Key aspects to monitor:
- Progress of rain and wind over the next 24 hours across the coast.
- The extent of infrastructure damage, especially in port towns and coastal roads.
- Disruption to rail, road and power services—many trains in the railway zone have already been cancelled or diverted.
- Human and economic impact in especially vulnerable mandals (administrative divisions) and villages.
