Cyclone Arnab crossed India’s Andhra Pradesh coast early Wednesday, October 28, bringing destructive winds and heavy rain after authorities moved nearly 100,000 people to safety in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.
The India Meteorological Department reported that winds stayed between 125 and 135 km/h, with gusts reaching 150 km/h, as the storm crossed the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam. The storm began crossing the coast near Narsapur, a town in West Godavari district. The landfall process was later reported to be complete, and the storm was moving inland.
Reports from Andhra Pradesh said more than 84,000 people had been moved to shelters. Reports from Odisha said nearly 48,000 people had been evacuated or directed to safer areas. Heavy rain and strong winds affected coastal districts, uprooting trees, breaking power lines and blocking roads.
The weather department warned that a rise in sea water could flood low-lying coastal areas. Exceptionally heavy rainfall also raised concerns about flooding. Odisha remained under heavy-rain alerts as the cyclone’s effects spread inland.
Early reports said that no deaths had been reported. Rescue and cleanup work continued as officials assessed damage. Officials urged residents to follow safety advice.