Cyclone Mantha Triggers Red Alert in Andhra
A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into Cyclone Mantha, prompting emergency alerts across India’s eastern coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the cyclone is expected to make landfall near Kakinada on October 28, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds.
The IMD has placed Andhra Pradesh under a red alert from October 27 to 29. Coastal districts including Kakinada, Machilipatnam, and Kalingapatnam are expected to face wind speeds up to 110 km/h and rainfall exceeding 20 cm. The government has activated disaster response teams and issued evacuation advisories for low-lying areas.
In anticipation of severe impact, the Indian Army and Coast Guard have been placed on standby. Fishermen have been urged to return to shore, and ports have suspended operations temporarily. Relief camps are being set up across vulnerable districts.
Cyclone Mantha is also expected to affect parts of Tamil Nadu and Odisha. Chennai has already received heavy rainfall, and IMD forecasts continued downpour through the week. Odisha’s coastal belt is bracing for flash floods and wind damage.
Meteorologists warn that the northeast monsoon winds may amplify the cyclone’s intensity. This could lead to prolonged rainfall and flooding in Rayalaseema and Yanam regions. Emergency services are coordinating with local administrations to ensure preparedness.
Airports in Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Rajahmundry may face delays or cancellations. South Central Railway has issued alerts for possible disruptions in train services due to waterlogging and track damage.
District collectors in East and West Godavari, Krishna, and Guntur have declared holidays for schools and advised private offices to allow remote work. Public transport is being monitored for safety compliance.
The Andhra Pradesh government has released emergency funds and mobilized medical teams. Mobile health units and rescue boats are being deployed in flood-prone zones. Citizens are advised to stock essentials and avoid travel during peak storm hours.
Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy held a high-level review meeting with disaster management officials. Opposition leaders have urged for transparency in relief distribution and
Cyclone Mantha is expected to weaken gradually after landfall but may continue to cause heavy rainfall inland. The IMD will issue hourly updates, and citizens are encouraged to follow official channels for accurate information.
