Cyclonic storm Montha is intensifying over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, 2025. Image: India TV.
(The Post News)- A severe weather threat is looming over Andhra Pradesh as Cyclone Montha, the first major storm of the season intensifies in India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for 23 of the state’s 26 districts, warning of torrential rains, high-speed winds, and the potential for widespread flooding.
According to reports, Cyclone Montha, is rapidly gaining strength and is expected to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada on 28 October 2025. Authorities are undertaking large scale preparations to safeguard residents and infrastructure as the cyclone is moving towards the Andhra coastline. Fishermen and residents in coastal areas have been urged to remain indoors and avoid venturing into the sea.
The IMD has predicted that Cyclone Montha will bring wind speeds ranging from 90 to 100 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 110 km/h at the time of landfall. This severe weather system will unleash heavy rainfall over a wide area, with torrential downpours expected to affect both Andhra Pradesh and neighboring Odisha.
In Andhra Pradesh, the IMD has issued red and orange alerts for 23 districts, including the coastal and southern regions. The most affected areas are likely to experience very heavy rainfall, accompanied by dangerous winds that could cause widespread damage. An orange alert has been issued for districts including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, and Kandhamal, where residents are bracing for heavy rainfall.
IMD in a statement added that red alert has been declared for Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Rayagada, and Malkangiri, areas expected to receive the heaviest downpours. “Wind speeds in these regions may reach 60 to 70 km/h, with gusts up to 80 km/h. The IMD has warned of potential landslides in Gajapati and Koraput due to the heavy rain, while widespread waterlogging could disrupt transport and infrastructure.
Residents in affected areas have been urged to stay indoors during the cyclone, avoid non-essential travel, and follow government advisories closely,” read the statement. The statement continued to highlight that power outages are expected due to fallen trees and electric poles, and authorities are working to ensure the swift restoration of services once cyclone montha passes. In addition, roads could be blocked, and visibility may be severely reduced.
Dr. Mohanty, a senior meteorologist at the IMD, said that the cyclone will maintain its strength until it reaches Malkangiri in Odisha, after which it will begin to lose intensity. “Despite cyclone montha weakening, heavy rainfall will continue for several days across both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, and residents have been advised to remain cautious. Tourists in coastal regions have also been urged to stay inside their hotels and avoid any outdoor activities until the storm passes,” said Dr Mohanty.
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