Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh:
Visakhapatnam witnessed heavy rainfall and strong winds on Tuesday as Cyclone Montha, a severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal, approached the Andhra Pradesh coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast landfall along the north Andhra coast within the next 24 hours, between Kalingapatnam and Gopalpur, with intense rainfall and strong gusts expected.
The early morning downpour caused waterlogging in several low-lying areas of Visakhapatnam city, including MVP Colony, Siripuram, and NAD junction. Streets were submerged, resulting in traffic congestion and delays. Residents reported strong winds uprooting trees and damaging roadside electricity poles, leading to temporary power outages in some localities.
IMD officials warned that rainfall could reach heavy to very heavy levels over the next 24 hours, and wind speeds may rise up to 100 kmph in coastal districts. Authorities have issued red alerts for Visakhapatnam and surrounding areas and advised people to avoid venturing outdoors unless necessary.
Visakhapatnam District Collector S. K. Sinha stated that disaster management teams have been deployed in vulnerable areas and are coordinating with municipal authorities, police, and medical teams to handle emergencies. “All precautionary measures have been put in place. Fishermen have been advised to stay ashore, and evacuation arrangements are ready for low-lying villages along the coast,” the Collector added.
The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Response Force (APSDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have stationed teams in strategic locations to assist in potential evacuations and relief operations. Relief materials, including food, drinking water, and medical supplies, have been pre-positioned at cyclone shelters.
Power and water departments are on high alert to restore essential services quickly in case of disruptions. Municipal teams are working to clear waterlogged roads and fallen trees to facilitate smoother traffic movement. Residents have been urged to stay updated with official advisories and not rely on unverified social media reports.
Fishermen from Visakhapatnam and nearby coastal mandals have been strictly warned against venturing into the sea, as rough conditions with waves up to 4–6 meters are expected. Crop damage and flooding in coastal agricultural areas are also anticipated, prompting authorities to advise farmers to take preventive measures.
Public transportation has been affected, with some bus routes canceled and train schedules expected to be delayed depending on the intensity of rainfall and wind. Schools and offices in affected areas are being monitored for operational adjustments if the situation worsens.
The IMD has stated that Cyclone Montha is likely to weaken gradually after making landfall, but heavy rainfall and strong winds may persist in the region for the next 24–48 hours. Officials continue to urge residents to follow safety protocols and remain vigilant.
