Published - October 27, 2026 07:19 am IST

Coastal patrolling has been intensified, and the Marine Police have been put on alert in view of the cyclone, say officials. FIle | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The eastern coastal states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh closed schools, prohibited sea fishing and kept rescue teams on standby, stepping up precautionary measures ahead of severe Cyclone Arnab’s expected landfall on Wednesday to ensure “zero loss of life and minimal damage to infrastructure”.
Also read | Cyclone ‘Arnab’ Highlights on October 26, 2026
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the deep depression over east-central and southeast Bay of Bengal has moved westward and has intensified into cyclonic storm ‘Arnab’.
Also read | Very severe cyclone ‘Arnab’ to make landfall near Yanam-Kakinada; red alert issued for seven districts
It is likely to cross Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam as a very severe cyclonic storm, with maximum sustained winds of 115-125 kmph gusting up to 140 kmph by the forenoon of October 28, it said.
Follow our Live updates
October 27, 2026 07:19
Narayana directs civic officials to remain on high alert as cyclone nears
Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister P. Narayana has directed Municipal Commissioners in cyclone-affected municipalities to remain on high alert and take all necessary measures to protect the public from the impact of severe cyclonic storm Arnab.
During a teleconference with Municipal Commissioners on Monday, attended by senior officials of the Municipal Administration Department, the Minister instructed the authorities to prevent waterlogging in low-lying areas and ensure the effective functioning of drainage systems.
He directed engineering and sanitation staff to take timely measures to clear drains and ensure the smooth flow of rainwater. Officials were asked to remain vigilant and respond promptly to emerging situations.
October 27, 2026 07:19
Cyclone alert triggers panic buying of essentials in Visakhapatnam markets
Panic buying of essential commodities was reported across Visakhapatnam on Monday as Cyclone Arnab barrels towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Arnab is expected to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm and cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam-Kakinada, by October 28. The forecast of heavy rainfall and gusty winds reaching up to 140 kmph triggered early-morning rush and panic buying across the coastal city.
Shoppers flocked to markets in large numbers, leaving Rythu Bazaars and open retail counters completely depleted as people rushed to hoard essential commodities ahead of the impending storm.
October 27, 2026 07:19
Odisha, Andhra shut schools, ban fishing as Cyclone Arnab nears; Centre stresses zero casualties
The eastern coastal states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh closed schools, prohibited sea fishing and kept rescue teams on standby, stepping up precautionary measures ahead of Cyclone Arnab’s expected landfall on Wednesday to ensure “zero loss of life and minimal damage to infrastructure”.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), in its Monday morning bulletin, said a deep depression over east-central and southeast Bay of Bengal has moved westward and has intensified into cyclonic storm ‘Arnab’. -- PTI
Published - October 27, 2026 07:19 am IST
.png)
52 minutes ago
1








English (US) ·