Indian authorities are taking urgent measures as Cyclone Montha approaches the eastern seaboard, prompting school closures and the evacuation of tens of thousands from coastal regions. The severe cyclonic storm, currently intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, is predicted to make landfall later today near the port city of Kakinada in southern Andhra Pradesh.
According to the India Meteorological Department, Cyclone Montha is now located approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles) southeast of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh. Forecasts indicate that the storm will bring winds ranging from 90 km/h to 110 km/h (55 to 68 mph) as it nears the coast. Red alerts have been issued for 19 districts in Andhra Pradesh, warning of extremely heavy rainfall.
The state government has mobilized disaster response teams, successfully relocating around 38,000 people from vulnerable low-lying areas to designated relief camps. The authorities estimate that approximately 4 million residents are in high-risk zones and may be affected by the cyclone. Communications Minister Nara Lokesh announced on social media that the state has prepared 1,906 relief camps and 364 school shelters as evacuations continue across 1,238 villages identified as susceptible to flooding.
Schools and colleges in the region will remain closed until Wednesday, and fishermen have been advised to avoid sea activities during this period. Additionally, travel disruptions have been reported, with several train and flight services partially affected.
In the neighboring state of Odisha, authorities are also responding to the storm’s threat. Approximately 32,000 individuals from at-risk areas have begun to be relocated to safety in relief camps, as officials prioritize community safety amidst the storm’s impending arrival.
Climate scientists warn that severe storms like Cyclone Montha are becoming increasingly frequent in South Asia, with global warming intensifying their impact. Historically, India has faced cyclones, but the frequency of intense storms has risen significantly. In fact, the 2023 cyclone season was marked as one of the deadliest in recent years, resulting in the loss of 523 lives and causing an estimated $2.5 billion in damages.
As Cyclone Montha continues its approach, authorities remain vigilant, ensuring the safety of residents along the eastern coastline. The response teams are prepared for the worst, ready to provide assistance in the aftermath of this powerful storm.
