Last Updated on October 28, 2026 6:51 pm by INDIAN AWAAZ
AMN / NEWS DESK
Cyclone Arnab has weakened after making landfall along the Andhra Pradesh-Yanam coast, but its impact continues to be felt across southern Odisha. The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds and possible flash floods in several southern districts. Train services have been disrupted, while bus connectivity between Bhubaneswar and southern Odisha has also faced precautionary restrictions. The next 24 hours remain crucial for flood monitoring, public safety and restoration of essential services across the affected districts.
“In Odisha, the immediate concern is the possibility of flash floods and waterlogging following intense rainfall associated with Cyclone Arnab. As the cyclone completed its landfall near Yanam this morning and weakened into a severe cyclonic storm, the IMD said it will weaken further into a deep depression by this evening and cross Malkangiri in Odisha. Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri are among the districts facing significant rainfall and flash-flood risks. Nabarangpur is also experiencing heavy rainfall. IMD has warned of strong winds, with gusts potentially reaching eighty kilometres per hour in southern districts. Some northern districts will also have heavy rain with strong winds. The sea remains dangerous, and fishermen have been advised not to venture out. Railway services have been cancelled or regulated as a precaution, while bus services to southern Odisha have faced disruption. The state government has kept rescue teams ready, arranged shelters and directed officials to protect vulnerable residents and restore essential services. The next twenty-four hours are critical for Odisha. Even as the cyclone weakens, accumulated rainfall, swollen streams and sudden flooding may pose serious risks.
Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu seeks early central teams to assess cyclone damage
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking early deployment of central teams to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Arnab in the state. In his letter, the Chief Minister said the cyclone had damaged crops, houses, roads and electricity infrastructure. He said 16 NDRF and 11 SDRF teams had been deployed across 14 districts, while more than 28,000 people had been shifted to rehabilitation centres. No loss of life has been reported so far.
Mr. Naidu said Konaseema, Kakinada, East Godavari, West Godavari, Anakapalli and Krishna districts were among the worst affected. He said control rooms and the State Emergency Operations Centre were functioning round the clock, with priority given to relief operations and restoration of electricity and drinking water supplies. The state government has issued emergency helpline numbers 1070 and 112. Mr. Naidu also sought continued support from central agencies for relief and rehabilitation.