Cyclone Montha: AP, Odisha Schools Shut As 2 States Brace For Landfall; Beach Activities Suspended

A low-pressure system over the southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into a well-marked weather disturbance, now on track to develop into Cyclone Montha. Meteorological authorities expect the system to escalate into a severe cyclonic storm, with landfall projected near Kakinada on the Andhra Pradesh coast by the evening of October 28.

The impending cyclone has prompted widespread alerts across Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, with forecasts warning of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential landslides in several districts. In anticipation of the storm's impact, local administrations have begun evacuating vulnerable communities, including residents of Hope Island in Kakinada, to safer locations.

To ensure public safety, especially that of schoolchildren, authorities in both states have ordered the closure of educational institutions across multiple districts.

In Andhra Pradesh, schools in Kakinada will remain shut from October 27 to 31, while West Godavari, Eluru, East Godavari, Annamayya, Kadapa, NTR, Bapatla, Krishna, and Guntur districts have announced closures ranging from October 27 to 29. Konaseema district will determine closures based on rainfall intensity. In Odisha, Gajapati district has suspended all school, college, and anganwadi operations until October 30.

Odisha's Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari held a high-level review meeting on Sunday to assess the state's preparedness. Eight southern districts-Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur-have been designated as Red Zones due to their vulnerability. However, all 30 districts have been instructed to remain on alert in case the cyclone shifts course.

Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh government has activated its pre-cyclone relief roadmap, ensuring essential supplies and emergency services are in place. As the deep depression continues to strengthen, authorities are urging residents to follow official advisories and take necessary precautions.