Cyclone Montha makes landfall along Andhra Pradesh coast

New Delhi, Oct 28: Cyclone Montha, a severe cyclonic storm that formed over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal, began making landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on Tuesday, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to several coastal districts, regional and national media reported.

The name Montha, meaning “fragrant flower” in Thai, was assigned to the storm by Thailand. According to the Meteorological Department, the cyclone is expected to cross the coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, within the next few hours as a severe cyclonic storm, with maximum wind speeds of 90–100 kmph and gusts up to 110 kmph.

In anticipation of heavy rain across Andhra and Odisha, the state government has mobilised officials, NDMA, SDMA, security forces and volunteers, including administration, which is on high alert. The Meteorological Department has also warned of possible damage to standing paddy and vegetable crops in low-lying and waterlogged areas, advising farmers to drain excess water where possible. Residents have been urged to stay indoors, and those living in coastal areas were evacuated. Locals have been asked to follow safety advisories issued by local authorities.