Cyclone Montha Brings Heavy Rain to Andhra Pradesh; Wet Spell to Continue Till Saturday
Andhra Pradesh is witnessing heavy rainfall and strong winds as Cyclone Montha sweeps across the eastern coast of India. The cyclonic storm, which developed over the Bay of Bengal earlier this week, has intensified, bringing continuous downpours, gusty winds, and rough sea conditions to several coastal districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the wet spell will continue till Saturday, urging citizens and fishermen to remain cautious.
Cyclone Montha’s Formation and Path
Cyclone Montha was first identified as a low-pressure system over the central Bay of Bengal, gradually intensifying due to warm sea temperatures and strong monsoon moisture. By Thursday, it had strengthened into a deep depression and was officially named Cyclone Montha.
The cyclone began moving northwestward toward the Andhra coast, impacting regions such as Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, East Godavari, and West Godavari. As it approached land, the system triggered heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, with wind speeds between 50 to 70 km/h.
Meteorologists report that Montha is expected to move north-northeastward after brushing the Andhra coast and will gradually weaken into a depression by Saturday night. However, until then, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in most coastal and adjoining inland districts.
Heavy Rains Lash Coastal Andhra
Since Thursday evening, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, and Rajahmundry have been receiving intense rainfall. Roads in low-lying areas were inundated, and several parts of the cities faced waterlogging. Strong winds uprooted trees and electric poles in some regions, causing temporary power disruptions.
In Srikakulam and Vizianagaram, rural areas recorded over 100 mm of rainfall within 24 hours. The continuous downpour has affected transportation, with buses running at reduced frequency and local train services facing brief delays due to track flooding. In Amalapuram and nearby coastal mandals, tidal waves have been reported along the shorelines. Fishermen in these areas were advised not to venture into the sea, as wave heights could reach up to 3–4 meters.
IMD Forecast and Warnings
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to continue across coastal Andhra Pradesh till Saturday evening. The IMD has issued a “Yellow Alert” for Visakhapatnam, East Godavari, and West Godavari districts, while a “Red Alert” is in effect for Srikakulam and Vizianagaram due to extremely heavy rainfall probability.
The IMD has also cautioned that strong winds will continue to blow at speeds of 60–80 km/h, especially near coastal areas. Sea conditions remain rough to very rough, and fishermen have been strictly advised to stay ashore until further notice. Inland districts like Guntur, Krishna, and Nellore are also expected to receive moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning.
Government and Disaster Response
The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has activated emergency helplines and set up control rooms in all affected districts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been deployed to coastal areas prone to flooding. District collectors have been instructed to monitor reservoir levels and ensure proper drainage in urban areas. Relief teams are on standby with boats, food packets, and medical kits.
Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has reviewed the situation with senior officials and directed that all necessary measures be taken to safeguard the lives and property of citizens. Special attention has been given to villages near the Godavari and Vamsadhara rivers, where water levels are expected to rise due to continuous rainfall.
Impact on Daily Life
The heavy rainfall has disrupted normal life in many districts. Schools and colleges in low-lying areas of Visakhapatnam, East Godavari, and Srikakulam were closed as a precautionary measure. Commuters faced traffic jams and flooding on key roads, including Beach Road, NAD Junction, and Gajuwaka in Visakhapatnam.
Electricity supply was temporarily halted in some localities to prevent accidents from short circuits and fallen power lines. Meanwhile, railway officials have kept a close watch on the tracks near Kakinada and Rajahmundry, where flooding has been reported. Farmers in West Godavari expressed concern about paddy and vegetable crops, which may suffer due to excess waterlogging. Agricultural officers have been dispatched to assess the damage and guide farmers on preventive measures.
Public Safety Measures
Authorities have issued several safety guidelines for the public:
- Avoid traveling through flooded areas and open fields during lightning.
- Stay indoors and keep emergency kits, candles, and mobile chargers ready.
- Keep livestock and valuables in higher areas to avoid damage.
- Do not touch electric wires or poles during rain.
- Follow only official weather updates from IMD or APSDMA.
Sea and Coastal Conditions
Along the coastline of Visakhapatnam and Kakinada, the sea remains turbulent, with strong waves crashing onto the shores. Fishermen have secured their boats and nets along the harbors. Port authorities have hoisted “Signal Number 3” warning flags, restricting movement of small and medium vessels. Tourist spots like R.K. Beach and Rushikonda Beach have been closed to visitors for safety. Police have been deployed along the coast to prevent people from venturing near the water.
Cyclone Montha’s Path Ahead
As per the latest meteorological projections, Cyclone Montha will continue moving north-northeastward along the coast and gradually weaken into a depression by Saturday evening. The system may still bring scattered rainfall to northern Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha before it dissipates over land. By Sunday, weather conditions are expected to improve, with only light rain in isolated areas and clear skies returning early next week.
Conclusion
Cyclone Montha has brought much-needed rain to Andhra Pradesh but also tested the state’s disaster preparedness. The coordinated efforts of the government, disaster response teams, and citizens have helped minimize major damage so far.
While the storm will weaken in the coming days, residents are advised to stay alert and follow all safety measures until the IMD lifts its warnings. For now, Andhra Pradesh stands resilient — weathering the fury of Cyclone Montha with caution and courage.
