Cyclone Arnab 2026: Andhra Pradesh on Red Alert as Storm Nears Coast

Cyclone Arnab 2026 approaches Andhra Pradesh as a very severe cyclonic storm. Check the October 28 landfall forecast, IMD alerts, wind speed, rainfall risks and evacuation measures.

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Cyclone Arnab 2026 has intensified into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal, prompting heightened preparedness in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast reported on October 27, 2026, the cyclone is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts on October 28.

With maximum sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph and gusts reaching up to 140 kmph, the storm poses risks of heavy rainfall, coastal flooding, storm surges and damage to infrastructure. State authorities have initiated precautionary measures, including evacuations, the establishment of relief camps and restrictions on fishing activities.

Cyclone Arnab 2026: Latest Updates

Current location: West-central Bay of Bengal, according to the October 27 IMD bulletin cited in the report.
Expected landfall: Forenoon of October 28, 2026.
Probable landfall zone: Between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam.
Cyclone category: Very Severe Cyclonic Storm.
Wind speed: 115–125 kmph, with gusts up to 140 kmph.
Alert status: Red alert reported for Andhra Pradesh.
Major concerns: Heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal inundation and flooding in low-lying areas.

The exact landfall location and intensity may change as the cyclone approaches the coast. Residents should follow the latest official IMD bulletins and instructions from local authorities.

Cyclone Arnab Landfall Forecast for October 28

According to the forecast published on October 27, Cyclone Arnab is expected to move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast after travelling west-northwestwards over the Bay of Bengal.

The predicted landfall zone extends from Bapatla to Visakhapatnam, with the storm expected to cross the coast near Yanam during the forenoon of October 28.

The projected wind speeds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts up to 140 kmph, indicate the potential for significant damage to trees, electric poles, temporary structures, transport infrastructure and coastal settlements.

The cyclone’s movement also raises concerns about disruptions to road and rail services, fishing activities and essential services in affected districts.

Areas at Risk from Cyclone Arnab

Several coastal and adjoining districts of Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha are preparing for the cyclone’s impact.

Andhra Pradesh

The coastal districts face risks from strong winds, intense rainfall and possible inundation of low-lying areas. Kakinada, Yanam and parts of the Godavari delta have received particular attention in preparedness measures.

According to the October 27 report, authorities were preparing relief camps and evacuating vulnerable coastal populations. The Visakhapatnam district administration had identified 37 villages across 11 mandals as potentially affected and arranged 54 relief camps.

Odisha

Southern Odisha may experience heavy rainfall and strong winds as the cyclone approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast. Authorities have initiated precautionary measures, including preparations for evacuations, suspension of certain water-based tourism activities and restrictions on fishing.

Heavy rainfall may also increase the risk of localised flooding, waterlogging and transport disruptions.

Rainfall, Storm Surge and Flooding Risks

Cyclone Arnab presents several interconnected hazards.

Heavy rainfall: Intense rainfall can cause urban waterlogging, river flooding and disruption to agriculture.
Storm surge: A rise in sea level associated with the cyclone can inundate low-lying coastal settlements.
Strong winds: High winds may damage houses, power lines, trees, communication infrastructure and public utilities.
Coastal erosion: Strong waves and storm-driven water can accelerate erosion and damage coastal infrastructure.
Agricultural losses: Standing paddy crops, horticulture and fishing-related livelihoods may be affected.
Transport disruption: Railway cancellations, road closures and suspension of ferry services may be necessary for public safety.

The source report cited a possible storm surge of 1.0–1.5 metres above the astronomical tide. Actual impacts will depend on the cyclone’s intensity, landfall location, local coastal conditions and tide levels.

Government Preparedness and Evacuation Measures

The Andhra Pradesh government has directed departments and district administrations to remain alert and coordinate emergency responses.

Major preparedness measures reported on October 27 include:

Evacuation of people from vulnerable coastal and flood-prone settlements.
Establishment of relief camps and arrangements for food and safe drinking water.
Deployment of disaster response and medical teams.
Closure of schools in affected areas as a precaution.
Suspension of fishing activities and warnings against venturing into the sea.
Monitoring of drainage systems, roads, electricity supply and other essential services.
Preparation of emergency healthcare facilities for cyclone-related injuries and other urgent medical needs.

Odisha has also initiated precautionary measures in districts expected to experience heavy rainfall and strong winds.

The effectiveness of these measures will depend on timely evacuation, reliable public communication, interdepartmental coordination and rapid restoration of essential services.

What Is a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm?

The IMD classifies cyclonic systems over the North Indian Ocean according to their maximum sustained wind speeds.

Cyclone category	Maximum sustained wind speed
Cyclonic Storm	62–88 kmph
Severe Cyclonic Storm	89–117 kmph
Very Severe Cyclonic Storm	118–167 kmph
Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm	168–221 kmph
Super Cyclonic Storm	222 kmph or more

Cyclone Arnab’s forecast wind speeds place it within the Very Severe Cyclonic Storm category as described in the report. Classification is based on sustained winds rather than brief gusts.

Safety Measures for People in Cyclone-Prone Areas

Residents in potentially affected areas should follow official warnings and evacuation instructions.

Move to designated shelters if instructed by local authorities.
Keep drinking water, essential medicines, a torch, a power bank and important documents ready.
Stay indoors and away from windows during strong winds.
Avoid coastal areas, flooded roads, rivers and damaged electrical lines.
Do not venture into the sea during the warning period.
Follow official updates rather than relying on unverified social media messages.
Return to evacuated areas only after authorities declare them safe.

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