Cyclone Montha has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching 90-100 kmph, bringing heavy rains and strong winds along the Andhra Pradesh coast. The storm is expected to make landfall near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, late tonight.

 

 

Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are already pounding Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, East Godavari, Konaseema, Kakinada, Krishna, Nellore, and Prakasam districts. Several roads have been inundated, disrupting traffic and cutting off access to some low-lying areas. Around 1,400 villages and 44 towns are likely to be affected by the cyclone.

 

 

Authorities have placed several districts under orange and yellow alert, with Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, and West Godavari witnessing the most severe weather. Schools and colleges in the affected districts have been closed for two days, and train and flight services have been disrupted or cancelled.

 

 

The Andhra Pradesh government has activated a 24×7 Real Time Governance Society war-room to coordinate evacuation, rescue, and restoration operations under a zero-casualty mission. 

 

 

Special attention is being given to pregnant women and lactating mothers, with hospitals kept on alert. About 364 schools have been converted into cyclone shelters, while fishing and boating activities have been suspended until tomorrow.

 

 

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is personally monitoring the situation and has directed officials to maintain uninterrupted communication through satellite phones and mobile towers. Hourly weather bulletins are being issued to keep the public informed and safe.

 

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Chief Minister and assured full central support for relief and restoration efforts.