A severe cyclonic storm, dubbed Montha, is rapidly developing in the Bay of Bengal, leading the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a critical ‘red alert’ for several coastal districts in Andhra Pradesh. The storm is anticipated to make landfall on Tuesday, October 28th, in the evening or night, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, if its current trajectory holds.
Montha is generating sustained winds of 90–100 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching 110 kmph. The IMD warns of heavy to very heavy rainfall in many coastal areas, possibly escalating to extreme levels in isolated pockets. This intense weather system is fueled by significant cloud formations and thunderstorms over the central and southern Bay of Bengal.
Emergency preparations are in full swing. Authorities in the districts of Kakinada, Konaseema, West Godavari, Krishna, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Nellore are on high alert. Plans are in place to provide essential food supplies and medical aid to those most at risk. Evacuations and the establishment of relief shelters are being prioritized. The public is strongly advised to stay indoors during severe weather and to rely on official information channels. Fishermen are under strict orders to remain ashore for the upcoming five days due to hazardous sea conditions.