Cyclone Arnab is moving closer to India's eastern coast, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue warnings for several states. The storm is expected to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm before crossing the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts on October 28, 2026, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall.
According to the IMD, the cyclone is moving west-northwestward over the Bay of Bengal and is likely to make landfall between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, on Wednesday morning. Maximum sustained wind speeds could reach 115–125 kmph, with gusts touching 140 kmph.
Authorities in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and neighbouring states have stepped up preparations as the approaching storm raises concerns about flooding, strong winds and disruptions to daily life.
Cyclone Arnab landfall forecast: Andhra Pradesh rain alert
Andhra Pradesh has been placed on high alert as Cyclone Arnab approaches the coast. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to maintain round-the-clock vigilance and strengthen emergency preparedness to minimise the impact on coastal communities.
According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), the cyclone was located approximately 580 km from Visakhapatnam and 660 km from Kakinada on Monday afternoon. Officials are closely tracking its movement and coordinating precautionary measures.
The IMD has warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam on October 27 and 28. Strong winds, thunderstorms and lightning are also expected, particularly in vulnerable coastal areas.
Disaster response teams have been placed on alert, while authorities are preparing evacuation arrangements and temporary shelters. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into affected waters because of dangerous sea conditions.
Odisha cyclone preparations and Telangana storm warning
Odisha has also intensified its preparations despite the cyclone being forecast to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has assigned eight ministers to oversee arrangements in vulnerable districts.
Emergency teams have been mobilised, and authorities are preparing shelters and coordinating rescue operations. Schools and colleges in six vulnerable districts have been ordered closed on October 28 and 29 as a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, Telangana could experience thunderstorms accompanied by winds of 50–60 kmph, with gusts reaching 70 kmph on October 28. Parts of southern Odisha and West Bengal are also likely to receive heavy rainfall as the weather system develops.
Tamil Nadu is already experiencing widespread rainfall due to the active northeast monsoon. Several locations in Ramanathapuram district recorded more than 100 mm of rain, while fresh landslips and fallen trees disrupted normal life in the Nilgiris.
With Cyclone Arnab expected to reach the coast on October 28, authorities have urged residents to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and follow official instructions.
People living in low-lying and coastal areas are advised to stay informed through IMD weather bulletins and local administration updates. Officials continue to monitor the storm's intensity and movement as preparations remain underway to protect lives and minimise damage.
