India Prepares Evacuations as Cyclone Arnab Approaches

Authorities in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are preparing to evacuate thousands of people as Cyclone Arnab approaches India’s eastern coast. The storm, which developed over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh by Wednesday morning, with wind gusts reaching up to 140 kmph. India’s weather department has warned that the cyclone could intensify further.

Andhra Pradesh has identified around 570,000 people as vulnerable, with evacuation operations scheduled to begin on Monday evening. Officials have also urged boats at sea to return to shore and directed authorities to ensure the speedy restoration of electricity in case of disruptions. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast for northern and central coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and southern parts of neighbouring Odisha.

In Odisha, authorities have ordered schools and colleges in five districts to remain closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. The state government is also preparing to move residents from low-lying areas to cyclone shelters as a precaution. With the Bay of Bengal being a major region for tropical cyclones, emergency services in both states are taking preventive measures to minimise risks to lives and property.

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