Cyclone Arnab makes landfall along Andhra Pradesh coast, triggers heavy rain and strong winds

Cyclone Arnab is on track to make landfall on the eastern coast of India early Wednesday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The storm, currently moving rapidly, is expected to make landfall between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. IMD predicts the cyclone will arrive as a severe cyclone with wind speeds ranging from 115-125 kmph, gusting up to 140 kmph.

Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are bracing for the impact, with an orange alert issued for several districts in both states. Odisha has evacuated over 48,000 people to shelters in eight districts, while several districts in Odisha are under red warning due to predicted heavy rainfall and strong winds. The government has deployed thousands of personnel and resources to manage the situation, including 244 fire services teams, 60 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams, and nine National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams.

Cyclone Arnab's path is expected to bring significant rainfall and strong winds to vulnerable coastal areas, with a risk of landslides in some districts. Authorities have taken precautions, including closing beaches, securing fishing boats, and providing medical services in affected areas.