Cyclone Arnab Nears Andhra Coast; Red Alert, Winds Up to 150 kmph

Cyclone Arnab approaches Andhra Pradesh, with a red alert, heavy rain and forecast gusts up to 150 kmph. Residents are urged to follow official warnings.

By News National Editorial Team

VISAKHAPATNAM, October 27, 2026: Andhra Pradesh is on high alert as Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab moves closer to the state's coastline over the west-central Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for affected coastal areas, warning of destructive winds, intense rainfall, rough seas and possible flooding as the storm approaches land.

According to an update reported by NDTV on Tuesday evening, the cyclone was moving west-northwestwards at approximately 18 kmph. It was forecast to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam on October 28, near the southern side of Yanam.

The latest reported forecast indicated sustained wind speeds of 125–135 kmph, with gusts reaching 150 kmph around landfall. Forecasts can change as the system approaches the coast, making it essential for residents to follow the latest official IMD bulletins and district administration instructions.

Coastal Districts Brace for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds

The approaching storm has already begun affecting parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh, with rainfall and gusty winds reported in several areas, including Visakhapatnam and parts of the Kakinada region.

The IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across vulnerable coastal districts. East Godavari, West Godavari, Kakinada, Konaseema and Anakapalli are among the areas identified in reports as facing significant weather risks.

Strong winds could damage weak structures, uproot trees, disrupt electricity supplies and affect road transport. Heavy rainfall may also cause waterlogging and flooding in low-lying locations.

Authorities are monitoring the storm's movement and coordinating emergency arrangements to reduce the risk to life and property.

Government Steps Up Emergency Preparations

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reviewed cyclone preparedness with district collectors and instructed officials to prioritise public safety.

Emergency measures include arrangements to move residents from vulnerable and low-lying areas to safer locations, prepare rehabilitation centres and ensure that essential supplies such as food and drinking water are available.

Disaster-response teams have been mobilised, while district control rooms are monitoring conditions and coordinating local responses. Officials have also been directed to prepare for power disruptions and restore essential services as quickly as possible if damage occurs.

The central government has reviewed preparations through the National Crisis Management Committee. The National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force and other emergency services have been placed on standby or deployed as required.

Rail Services and Educational Institutions Affected

The cyclone has also disrupted travel planning. Hindustan Times reported that 53 train services were listed for cancellation on October 27 and/or October 28 as a precaution.

Passengers should check the latest train status through official Indian Railways channels before travelling, as cancellation lists and operating arrangements may change.

Reports on Tuesday also indicated that educational institutions in affected Andhra Pradesh districts were scheduled to remain closed during the cyclone response period. Parents and students should confirm closure dates with their district administration or school authorities rather than relying on forwarded messages.

Fishing communities have been warned not to venture into the sea along affected parts of the Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Yanam coastline. People already at sea have been advised to return to shore.

Safety Advisory for Residents

Residents in areas facing cyclone warnings should follow these precautions:

• Move to a designated shelter if instructed by local authorities.

• Stay away from beaches, harbours, flooded roads and swollen streams.

• Secure loose outdoor objects and keep away from damaged trees and power lines.

• Keep drinking water, essential medicines, a torch, charged phones and important documents ready.

• Avoid travelling through flooded roads or standing water.

• Follow official evacuation instructions immediately, especially in low-lying coastal settlements.

People should report emergencies to local authorities and use verified government communication channels for updates.

The next stage depends on the cyclone's track, intensity and exact landfall location. Small changes in its path can alter which districts experience the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall.

The IMD and state disaster-management authorities continue to monitor the system. Residents should rely on updated official forecasts rather than treating any predicted landfall time or location as guaranteed.

For Andhra Pradesh, the immediate priority is to protect lives, move vulnerable residents to safety and minimise damage to homes, transport links, electricity infrastructure and essential services as Cyclone Arnab approaches the coast.