Cyclone Arnab Hits Coast: Landfall to Complete Soon as 140 kmph Winds Batter Region
Severe Cyclone Arnab makes landfall between Narasapur and Yanam with winds up to 140 kmph. Authorities report zero casualties so far.
The coastal stretch between Narasapur and Yanam is currently bracing for the full impact of Cyclone Arnab landfall. According to P V N Murthy, the Director of the Visakhapatnam Meteorological Department, the severe cyclonic storm has already touched the coast and is expected to complete its landfall process within the next one to three hours.
Slow Movement, High Intensity
Despite its destructive power, the cyclone is moving at a remarkably slow pace of approximately 3 kmph. This slow crawl means the coastal regions are enduring prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions. Currently, wind speeds are clocked between 125 and 135 kmph, with violent gusts peaking at 140 kmph.
Director Murthy indicated that once the landfall process is fully concluded, the system is projected to shift its trajectory in a north-northwest direction. He further noted that while heavy rainfall is expected to persist until Wednesday evening, both the wind intensity and the volume of rain will gradually subside thereafter.
Ground Zero: Situation in Yanam
In Yanam, the administration has been on high alert since Monday to mitigate any potential disasters. Yanam Superintendent of Police K Varadarajan confirmed that the region experienced severe conditions overnight, with wind speeds hitting 120 kmph accompanied by torrential rains.
Safety Measures and Casualty Report
The police and local administration have reported a successful evacuation and safety operation so far. Key highlights of the relief efforts include:
- Zero Casualties: Authorities have confirmed that there have been no deaths or injuries reported thus far.
- Shelter Operations: The Yanam Revenue Department identified and activated 19 shelters to house residents.
- Public Safety: Constant alerts have been issued to the public to remain indoors and follow safety protocols.
Damage and Recovery Efforts
While human casualties have been avoided, the storm has left its mark on the landscape. A significant number of trees have been uprooted, particularly in rural areas, blocking roads and disrupting movement.
To tackle the aftermath, the local police are collaborating with specialized rescue teams. Debris clearance operations are being launched with the critical assistance of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) from Puducherry.
Authorities continue to monitor the cyclone's movement closely, urging residents to remain vigilant until the system completely weakens and moves inland.