The Odisha government has intensified its preparations amid the threat of Cyclone Arnab, which is expected to make landfall near the northern coast of Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha on October 28. Disaster response teams have been deployed across the state to manage potential emergencies and minimise the impact of the storm.
The state has mobilised nearly 60 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams, 17 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and 225 fire brigade teams as part of its preparedness measures.
Schools and Colleges to Remain Closed on October 28 and 29
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Alert for coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha. The depression over the Bay of Bengal could intensify into an extremely severe cyclonic storm, according to the forecast cited in the report. Wind speeds could reach 140 km/h as the system approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast around October 28.
As a precaution, schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in five districts of southern Odisha have been ordered to remain closed on October 28 and 29.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reviewed the state’s preparedness at Lok Seva Bhavan on Saturday. He said weather forecasts indicate a high likelihood of the cyclone making landfall in Andhra Pradesh.
Expressing confidence in the state’s disaster management arrangements, Majhi said, “With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, we will achieve the target of zero casualties this time too.” He referred to Odisha’s experience in managing cyclones Dana and Montha, along with several flood situations.
Disaster Response Teams Deployed Across Odisha
Authorities have warned that wind speeds of 80 to 90 kilometres per hour are expected during the cyclone, accompanied by heavy rainfall. Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri are among the districts expected to face significant impacts. Rain is also forecast in other coastal parts of Odisha.
The Chief Minister has directed departments to coordinate their efforts and ensure that cyclone shelters and flood relief centres are ready to accommodate people who may need to be evacuated.
Officials have also been instructed to prioritise the safe transportation of patients and pregnant women to healthcare facilities. These measures are intended to ensure that vulnerable residents can access medical assistance during the emergency.
Fishermen Advised to Stay Away From the Sea
The administration has issued an advisory urging fishermen not to venture into the sea due to the potential cyclone threat.
Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert, follow official instructions and prepare for possible disruptions caused by strong winds and heavy rainfall. Authorities are continuing their preparedness efforts as the weather system develops.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the information available at the time of writing. Cyclone forecasts, landfall estimates, weather alerts and government advisories may change as new information becomes available. Readers should consult official updates from the India Meteorological Department and the Odisha government for the latest weather warnings, safety instructions and school closure announcements.