India’s eastern coast is on high alert as Cyclone Montha intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, bringing warnings of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for several coastal districts, urging residents to stay prepared and avoid travel until the system weakens.
Weather Today — Cyclone Montha Gains Strength
As of the latest IMD update, Cyclone Montha lies over the west-central Bay of Bengal, moving north-northwest at about 15 km/h. It is expected to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast near Kakinada on the evening of October 28, with wind speeds reaching 90–100 km/h and gusts up to 110 km/h.
Heavy rainfall is predicted over coastal Andhra Pradesh, northern Tamil Nadu, southern Odisha, and Telangana during October 27–29. Sea conditions are likely to remain “rough to very high,” posing risks to fishermen and coastal dwellers.
Official Source: India Meteorological Department (IMD)
Areas Under Alert — From Hyderabad to Kolkata
Andhra Pradesh and Coastal Regions
- Red alert districts: Kakinada, Konaseema, Krishna, Bapatla, and Nellore.
- Authorities have begun precautionary evacuations in low-lying coastal zones.
- Relief centres and emergency response teams are on standby as winds are expected to intensify by Tuesday evening.
Telangana — Hyderabad Weather Outlook
Hyderabad and neighbouring districts, including Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, and Mahabubabad, are forecast to experience moderate to heavy rainfall today. The city may witness temporary waterlogging, low visibility, and traffic delays.
Odisha & West Bengal — Extended Impact
In southern Odisha, districts like Ganjam and Malkangiri are on high alert for landslides and flooding. In West Bengal, including Kolkata, rainfall activity is likely to increase from October 29 onward, with cloudy skies and gusty winds through the week.
Today’s Weather Highlights at a Glance
| Region | IMD Alert | Expected Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Andhra Pradesh | Red Alert | Hefty rain, winds 90–110 km/h, storm surge risk |
| Telangana (Hyderabad) | Orange Alert | Heavy rain today, possible local flooding |
| Odisha (south districts) | Red Alert | Intense rain & landslide risk in hills |
| West Bengal (Kolkata) | Yellow Alert | Rain bands from October 29 onward |
Transport & Infrastructure Impact
- Railway services: Several trains through Visakhapatnam and Kakinada have been cancelled or diverted as a precaution.
- Air travel: Airports along the Andhra coast are on standby for flight delays or cancellations.
- Power supply: Disruption possible in low-lying districts as strong winds affect transmission lines.
- Telangana traffic: Expect slowdowns in Hyderabad during peak rainfall hours.
IMD Cyclone Montha Forecast — What Next?
According to IMD’s cyclone update, Montha will likely maintain its intensity until landfall, after which it will gradually weaken into a depression while moving north-eastwards. Despite weakening, the system will continue to bring widespread rainfall to coastal and inland districts for the next 48 hours.
The storm’s impact could extend into eastern Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand later in the week as its remnants move inland. Cyclone Montha also marks the first central cyclonic system of the 2025 post-monsoon season for India.
How to Stay Safe During the Cyclone
- Follow IMD and state disaster management advisories.
- Avoid fishing and coastal activities until official clearance.
- Charge phones and power banks before outages.
- Keep first-aid, essential medicines, and dry rations ready.
- Move to higher ground if you live in flood-prone zones.
- Do not venture out during heavy rain or strong winds.
- For Hyderabad residents: expect rain today and possible traffic delays—plan commute accordingly.
Broader Weather Context
The formation of Cyclone Montha is part of a broader trend of increased cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal during October–November. Meteorologists attribute this to warmer sea-surface temperatures and changing monsoon patterns.
This year’s post-monsoon period has already brought multiple depressions and low-pressure areas, making Montha one of the strongest weather events of the season.
Final Thoughts
The weather today reflects the full force of nature’s unpredictability. With Cyclone Montha closing in on Andhra Pradesh and its outer bands spreading rain to Telangana and beyond, vigilance is the best defence. Keep track of IMD’s live weather bulletins, prepare for possible disruptions, and stay indoors if conditions deteriorate.
FAQs / Quick Facts
Q1. When will Cyclone Montha make landfall?
It is expected to make landfall near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, on the evening of October 28 with strong winds and heavy rain.
Q2. Will Hyderabad see rain today?
Yes. Hyderabad weather shows intermittent rain and overcast skies as outer bands from Cyclone Montha move inland.
Q3. Is the railway service affected?
Several trains through coastal Andhra have been cancelled or diverted until the storm passes.
Q4. Which areas are under IMD alert?
Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, southern Odisha, and West Bengal are under different alert levels from the IMD.
Q5. How can citizens stay updated?
Check official IMD updates and state weather departments for live alerts and safety guidelines.
