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A powerful cyclone has struck India’s eastern state of Andhra Pradesh, bringing heavy rainfall and destructive winds after thousands of residents were evacuated from vulnerable coastal communities. Cyclone Arnab made landfall in the early hours of Wednesday, October 28, prompting emergency response operations across affected areas.
Authorities reported that the storm weakened slightly before reaching land but continued to generate severe weather conditions, with peak winds reaching approximately 185 kilometres per hour. Heavy to very heavy rainfall has affected several coastal districts, raising concerns about flooding, damaged infrastructure and further disruption as the cyclone moves inland.
At least 89,000 people had been evacuated in Andhra Pradesh ahead of the storm’s arrival. Emergency officials established more than 2,000 cyclone shelters across 20 districts, while medical teams and disaster response personnel were deployed to assist residents and respond to emergencies.
The storm has also disrupted transportation, with some train services cancelled as a precaution. In neighbouring Odisha state, authorities prepared to relocate approximately 48,000 people from areas considered vulnerable to the cyclone’s impact.
Although no casualties had been immediately reported following the storm’s landfall, officials warned that heavy rainfall and strong winds could continue as the system moves inland. Emergency agencies remain on alert, urging residents in affected communities to follow safety instructions and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
