Bhubaneswar: Odisha has intensified its disaster preparedness as Cyclone Arnab reportedly strengthened into a very severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast around noon on Wednesday, October 28, prompting authorities in Odisha and neighbouring states to remain on high alert.
According to the information provided, 294 rescue teams have been deployed across potentially affected areas of Odisha. Authorities are monitoring the cyclone’s movement and preparing to respond to possible heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding and other weather-related emergencies.
Cyclone Arnab’s Position and Wind Speed
Cyclone Arnab is reportedly located around 380 kilometres from Gopalpur in Odisha and 300 kilometres from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. The system is moving west-north-westwards at approximately 25 kilometres per hour, maintaining the same speed over the preceding six hours.
Wind speeds over the sea are estimated at 125–135 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 150 kmph. The IMD reportedly expects wind speeds to reach around 140 kmph when the cyclone crosses the Andhra Pradesh coast.
A cyclone alert has been issued for Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha, with authorities closely tracking the system and preparing for its possible impact.
Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds Expected in Southern Odisha
Several districts in southern Odisha may experience adverse weather conditions on October 27 and 28. Winds of 40–50 kmph are expected in the affected areas, accompanied by heavy rainfall, lightning and thunderstorms.
The weather conditions could disrupt normal activities and create risks for residents, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding and falling trees. District administrations have been instructed to remain prepared to respond to emergencies.
Residents in potentially affected areas should follow official weather bulletins and local administration advisories. They should also avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and stay away from rivers, streams and other flood-prone locations.
Odisha Deploys 294 Rescue Teams
As part of its cyclone preparedness measures, Odisha has reportedly deployed 294 rescue teams across various districts to strengthen emergency response operations.
The deployment includes:
- 9 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams
- 60 State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams
- 225 Fire Services teams
These teams are expected to support rescue and evacuation operations, assist people affected by flooding and respond to emergencies caused by strong winds and heavy rainfall.
The deployment reflects the administration’s efforts to ensure that trained personnel and emergency response resources are available in potentially affected areas.
Ganjam Receives Major Rescue Team Deployment
Ganjam district has received a significant share of the rescue deployment, with two NDRF teams and nine SDRF teams stationed in the district.
Given the possibility of adverse weather in southern Odisha, the district administration is monitoring the situation and preparing for emergency response requirements. Rescue teams are expected to assist with evacuation and other operations if conditions deteriorate.
District collectors in areas considered vulnerable have reportedly deployed personnel and initiated evacuation measures wherever necessary.
Centre Reviews Cyclone Preparedness
The Centre has also reviewed preparedness arrangements in states that could be affected by the cyclone. Cabinet Secretary T. V. Somanathan held a meeting on Monday with the Chief Secretaries of four states, including Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, to assess readiness and coordinate response measures.
During the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary assured the states that the Centre would extend assistance if required.
The review focused on preparedness for the potential impact of the cyclone and the need for coordination between central and state authorities.
Authorities Remain on High Alert
With Cyclone Arnab reportedly intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, Odisha’s disaster management machinery is preparing for possible disruptions in southern districts. The deployment of NDRF, SDRF and Fire Services teams is intended to strengthen the state’s capacity to respond quickly to emergencies.
Residents are advised to remain alert, follow official IMD forecasts and comply with instructions issued by district administrations. Weather conditions and cyclone forecasts may change, making it important to rely on the latest verified government advisories.
