Andhra Pradesh (Rajeev Sharma): Coastal Andhra Pradesh faced heavy rain and powerful winds on Wednesday as very severe cyclonic storm Arnab continued its landfall, with the storm’s centre remaining close to the coastline, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported.
According to the weather agency, the cyclone’s northern spiral band had advanced further inland, while the landfall process was expected to continue for approximately three more hours. The system was moving northwestwards and was likely to cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near the south of Yanam.
The IMD placed the cyclone over the west-central Bay of Bengal at approximately 16.4 degrees north latitude and 82 degrees east longitude. Its centre was around 30 km from Narsapur, 45 km from Yanam, 70 km from Kakinada and 90 km from Machilipatnam.
Wind speeds associated with the storm were forecast to reach 135 kmph, with gusts of up to 150 kmph during the next three hours, raising concerns over the impact on coastal settlements.
Torrential Rain Affects Multiple Districts
Heavy rainfall was reported in several areas of Anakapalli, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada and Konaseema districts as the cyclone moved closer to and across the coast. District collectors also reported strong winds, with trees uprooted or brought down at some locations.
The weather conditions created difficulties for residents in vulnerable areas, particularly where heavy rainfall combined with seawater entering low-lying locations.
In Kakinada district, flooding near the Bombay Katta area left four people unable to leave the place where they were staying.
Kakinada Police Carry Out Rescue Operation
The four individuals had reported for duty in the morning but later found themselves surrounded by floodwaters. By night, the water had cut off their route out of the area, prompting them to contact the police for assistance.
Police personnel responded to the request and launched a rescue operation. All four people were brought to safety, assisted into a vehicle and sent home, according to a district police press release.
The incident underscored the hazards posed by sudden flooding during severe weather, particularly in areas affected by heavy rainfall and seawater inundation.
Strong Winds Raise Safety Concerns
As Arnab’s landfall continued, coastal districts remained exposed to intense winds and further rainfall. The IMD said the cyclone was expected to maintain its northwestward movement while crossing the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coastline.
Reports of fallen trees and flooded areas pointed to the immediate disruption caused by the storm. Authorities were monitoring conditions across the affected districts as the cyclone continued to influence weather along the coast.
Residents in vulnerable locations faced risks from inundation, strong winds and blocked routes as the system moved inland.
