Cyclone Montha Approaching the East Coast
Cyclone Montha, a severe cyclonic storm forming over the Bay of Bengal, is rapidly strengthening as it moves north-westward toward India’s eastern coastline. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several districts in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, forecasting heavy rainfall, high tides, and wind speeds reaching up to 110 km/h between October 27 and 29.
The storm is expected to make landfall near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, on the evening or night of October 28, 2025. This event marks one of the most intense cyclonic formations of the year along India’s eastern coast.
Development and Path of Cyclone Montha
According to the IMD, Cyclone Montha developed from a deep depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal on October 25. It rapidly intensified into a cyclonic storm over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal by October 27 and is projected to become a severe cyclonic storm by October 28.
At 8 AM on October 26, the weather system was located about 830 km southeast of Kakinada and 930 km south-southeast of Gopalpur in Odisha. Moving in a northwest direction, Montha continues to gather strength, with maximum sustained winds forecast between 90–100 km/h, gusting up to 110 km/h at the time of landfall.
Affected Regions and Red Alert Zones
The IMD has issued a red alert for several coastal and adjoining districts in Andhra Pradesh — including Kakinada, Konaseema, West Godavari, Krishna, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Nellore — warning of extremely heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
Odisha is under a yellow alert, particularly for its southern districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri, which may experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall as the storm progresses inland. The high winds and storm surges are expected to impact parts of Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Tamil Nadu as well.
Rainfall and Wind Intensity Projections
Meteorologists expect widespread heavy rainfall to continue from October 27 to 29, particularly over coastal Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha. Rainfall could exceed 210 mm in 24 hours in some pockets, especially in Rayalaseema and Konaseema districts.
Wind speeds over the Bay of Bengal are already touching 90 km/h, and sea conditions are described as “rough to very rough.” A storm surge of up to one meter above astronomical tide is expected along coastal Andhra Pradesh. These conditions could lead to significant coastal flooding and saltwater intrusion in low-lying villages
Government Preparedness and Evacuation Measures
The Andhra Pradesh government has initiated large-scale preparedness efforts. The Chief Secretary, K. Vijayanand, has appointed senior IAS officers as Special Officers across coastal districts to coordinate disaster response, relief operations, and evacuation drives.
Cyclone control rooms have been activated, and over 200 cyclone shelters have been stocked with food, water, and medical supplies. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been deployed in strategic coastal locations. Meanwhile, the Indian Coast Guard has issued advisories for fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea for at least five days.
In Odisha, the state administration has moved to high readiness by stationing rescue teams and ensuring uninterrupted power, water, and communication networks in vulnerable zones.
Transport and Daily Life Disruptions
As Cyclone Montha approaches, there are reports of sea transport suspension in Kakinada, fishing bans across coastal Andhra and Odisha, and precautionary shutdowns of schools and businesses in vulnerable areas. Some low-lying villages have begun voluntary evacuations to higher ground, while railway and airline operators are preparing to adjust schedules in anticipation of weather disruptions.
Communication infrastructure in coastal belts is under watch, with telecom companies pre-positioning backup power units and emergency towers. Authorities have also advised residents near rivers, canals, and coasts to move inland temporarily to avoid flash floods.
Comparison with Past Cyclones
October has historically been a cyclone-prone month for India’s east coast. Andhra Pradesh has previously faced devastating storms, such as Cyclone Hudhud (2014), Cyclone Titli (2018), and Cyclone Ogni (2006). Cyclone Montha’s projected intensity and path appear similar to Hudhud, which caused widespread damage across Visakhapatnam and adjoining districts.
IMD scientists note that recurring cyclones in October are primarily due to warm sea surface temperatures and favorable monsoon withdrawal patterns over the Bay of Bengal. These conditions enable rapid storm formation and intensification.
Climate Perspective and Naming of Montha
Cyclone Montha was named by Thailand, meaning “fragrant flower” or “beautiful flower”. The recurrence of intense Bay of Bengal cyclones raises broader concerns about the effects of climate change on tropical storm behavior. Rising sea surface temperatures, now averaging 29–30°C, increase the energy available for such storms, making them more frequent and potentially more destructive.
Meteorologists and climate researchers emphasize that preparedness infrastructure and relocation systems are crucial as climate patterns shift toward more extreme weather events in South Asia.
Expected Impact Post-Landfall
Cyclone Montha is projected to weaken into a deep depression after landfall but continue producing heavy rainfall across inland Andhra Pradesh, southern Odisha, and parts of eastern Telangana through October 30. Flash floods, landslides in hilly areas, uprooting of trees, and damage to power lines are among the expected outcomes.
Agricultural regions may face crop losses due to waterlogging and wind damage. Paddy fields, banana plantations, and horticultural crops are particularly at risk in East and West Godavari districts.
The IMD has cautioned that urban areas, including Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Kakinada, and Vijayawada, could experience waterlogging and power interruptions, urging municipal bodies to stay on standby for dewatering and emergency response actions.
Safety Guidelines for Residents
Authorities and meteorological experts urge citizens to adhere strictly to official advisories and follow these safety measures during the cyclone period:
Avoid rumor-based messages; rely on official IMD and state warnings
Avoid coastal travel or fishing between October 26–30.
Keep essential supplies, including water, food, and flashlights, ready.
Charge mobile phones and keep emergency contact numbers accessible.
Secure loose outdoor items like furniture, banners, and tarpaulins.
Follow evacuation notices without delay.
Looking Ahead
While Montha’s landfall is imminent, quick and coordinated responses by the IMD, disaster management teams, and local governments could mitigate casualties and damage. The cyclone underscores the importance of early warning systems and inter-state coordination during weather-related emergencies.
Residents in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha should expect intermittent heavy rainfall, strong gusts, and temporary communication disruptions through the end of October. With continual monitoring and disciplined public response, the severe impact of Cyclone Montha can be reduced.
Final Word
Cyclone Montha’s approach is a stern reminder of nature’s force along India’s east coast. While its trajectory and strength mirror past severe storms, proactive action, precise forecasting, and public cooperation can save countless lives.
