Cyclone Montha has strengthened into a cyclonic storm and is poised to make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast today. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange warning, with the storm expected to become a severe cyclonic storm before hitting land between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada. High sea waves, potentially reaching 4.7 meters, are forecasted along the Andhra Pradesh coastline from Nellore to Srikakulam. In Odisha, a ‘red alert’ is in effect, prompting the evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas in eight southern districts. The state has increased its disaster response readiness with 140 rescue teams deployed. Cyclone Montha is currently moving northwest at approximately 15 km/h, situated hundreds of kilometers southeast of major coastal cities. The severe cyclonic storm is anticipated to bring destructive winds of 90-100 kmph, with gusts up to 110 kmph. Disaster management agencies are on high alert, with NDRF teams positioned across several states. Coastal populations are advised to seek shelter inland, and all fishing activities have been suspended. Beaches are temporarily closed to visitors.
