Cyclone Arnab Batters Andhra Pradesh: 3 Dead, 55,000 Evacuated
Cyclone Arnab makes landfall in Andhra Pradesh, leaving 3 dead and forcing the evacuation of 55,000 people. NDRF teams are on the ground for rescue.
A devastating weather system known as Cyclone Arnab has slammed into the coast of Andhra Pradesh, leaving a trail of destruction and forcing a massive emergency operation. According to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the storm has resulted in three casualties so far, while more than 55,000 residents have been moved to safety from coastal regions and low-lying areas to avoid the brunt of the storm.
Landfall and Intensity
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the very severe cyclonic storm completed its landfall along the coasts of Andhra Pradesh and Yanam between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam. The system crossed the coast between 2 am and 8 am on Wednesday, October 28, with its center moving entirely over land by 8 am.
At the peak of its impact, the cyclone packed maximum sustained wind speeds of 125–135 kmph, with powerful gusts reaching up to 150 kmph. By 8:30 am, the system was centered around 20 km east-northeast of Narsapur and 40 km southwest of Yanam.
Massive Rescue and Evacuation Effort
NDRF DIG (Operations) SS Soodan confirmed that the scale of the evacuation was immense, with over 55,000 people shifted in coordination with the state government. To manage the crisis, 39 NDRF teams have been deployed across the affected zones, including four teams that were airlifted on Tuesday to ensure a rapid response.
The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) has officially reported three deaths as the region grapples with the aftermath of the landfall.
Current Status of the Storm
While the initial impact was severe, the system has begun to lose strength. DIG Soodan noted that following the landfall at 8:30 am, Cyclone Arnab transitioned from a 'very severe cyclone' to a 'severe cyclone.' Experts predict that the system will weaken further over the coming hours, eventually transitioning into a deep depression.
Infrastructure Damage and Government Response
The fury of the sea has not been spared, with high-intensity waves and severe coastal erosion causing significant damage to the Uppada coastal road near Kakinada. The state administration has already initiated restoration and repair works in the area to restore vital connectivity and protect the coastline.
The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated that the Andhra Pradesh government remains on high alert, with officials working around the clock to safeguard lives and minimize further property damage.
Key Locations Impacted:
- Narsapur: 20 km west-southwest of the storm's center.
- Yanam: 40 km northeast of the center.
- Kakinada: 60 km northeast of the center.
- Machilipatnam: 90 km west-southwest of the center.
- Gannavaram and Tuni: Approximately 120 km from the center.