Bhubaneswar: While Cyclone Montha is projected to make its likely landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast, Odisha is preparing for a significant impact from the system, primarily in the form of widespread heavy rainfall and gusty winds, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced today.
The depression over the Bay of Bengal, which is set to intensify into Cyclone Montha by October 27, is currently moving west-northwestwards. Although the main storm is expected to spare Odisha a direct hit, its proximity will trigger adverse weather conditions across the state.
The IMD has issued alerts for heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple districts, with the wet spell expected to commence from October 27 and peak on October 28 and 29.
October 27: Moderate to heavy rain is forecast for districts including Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri.
October 28 & 29: The rainfall is expected to intensify across coastal and southern districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri. Northern districts like Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Bhadrak will also receive heavy showers.
Wind Warning: Squally weather, with wind speeds reaching 50 to 60 kmph and gusting up to 70 kmph, is expected along the Odisha coast, particularly the southern parts.
The Odisha government has activated its disaster management machinery in anticipation of the severe weather.
Preparedness: Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that all district administrations are on high alert. Cyclone shelters are being prepared, and food stockpiles are being secured.
Agricultural Concerns: There are growing concerns among farmers regarding the potential damage to standing paddy crops, much of which is harvest-ready. Farmers have been advised to take immediate measures to secure their produce.
Fishermen Warning: Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea along and off the Odisha coast from October 26 onwards due to rough sea conditions.
Weather conditions are expected to improve across the state from October 30 onwards as the system moves inland and weakens. The IMD continues to monitor the cyclone’s movement and urges residents to follow official bulletins closely