Cyclone Arnab: Heavy Rain Batters Andhra Pradesh, Odisha as Landfall Continues

Cyclone Arnab: Landfall Continues Along Andhra Pradesh Coast, Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Lash Coastal Districts

The landfall process of Cyclone Arnab began on Wednesday, with the storm’s centre remaining close to the Andhra Pradesh coastline, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather agency said the cyclone was moving very slowly, with landfall expected to continue for another two hours, as stated in its bulletin issued at 6:30 am on October 28.

The cyclone was positioned over the west-central Bay of Bengal, near the Andhra Pradesh coast. According to the IMD, its centre was approximately 30 km east of Narsapur, 45 km south-southwest of Yanam, 70 km south-southwest of Kakinada and 90 km east-northeast of Machilipatnam.

Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Batter Andhra Pradesh
Several parts of Andhra Pradesh experienced heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds on Tuesday and Wednesday as Cyclone Arnab affected coastal areas. The adverse weather also triggered rough sea conditions, raising concerns over traffic disruptions and damage to infrastructure.

Visuals from Ennore in North Chennai showed strong waves pushing seawater onto roads, disrupting traffic and leaving commuters struggling to navigate waterlogged stretches. Gusty winds and turbulent sea conditions added to the difficulties faced by people in the affected areas.

In Visakhapatnam, videos showed rough seas along the coast, with several people gathering to watch the waves and record the conditions on their mobile phones. Some were also seen taking selfies despite the turbulent weather.

Trees Uprooted, Power Lines Damaged in Several Districts
Heavy rainfall and strong winds affected several districts in Andhra Pradesh, including Anakapalli, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada and Konaseema.

District collectors in Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Konaseema and West Godavari reported intense rainfall and strong winds in their respective areas. The adverse weather uprooted trees and damaged power lines at multiple locations, highlighting the impact of the cyclone on local infrastructure.

With the landfall process continuing along the coast, authorities remained focused on monitoring weather conditions and assessing the impact across affected districts. Residents in vulnerable coastal areas should follow official advisories and exercise caution around rough seas, waterlogged roads, fallen trees and damaged electrical lines.