Hyderabad: A severe depression over the Bay of Bengal is set to strengthen into severe Cyclone Arnab, the weather department warned on Sunday. Authorities have placed coastal Andhra districts on high alert as the system intensifies.
According to the Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre, the storm is likely to cross the coast through the Konaseema region. Current projections indicate a possible landfall between Kakinada and Narsapuram. Officials warned that strong winds could accompany the cyclone when it crosses the coast. Wind speeds may reach around 140 kmph during landfall.
The cyclone could also trigger extremely heavy rainfall across coastal Andhra. Some areas may record more than 20 cm of rain due to the intensity of the weather system.
Cyclone Arnab may bring torrential rain
The weather department warned that several coastal areas could receive torrential rain as Cyclone Arnab approaches the coast. The risk is expected to increase in areas exposed to strong winds and heavy downpours.
People living in low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert. The warning comes as district administrations across coastal Andhra have been put on heightened preparedness.
The cyclone is expected to move towards the Konaseema belt before crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast. Authorities are monitoring its movement as the severe depression continues to gain strength over the Bay of Bengal.