Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab continued its landfall process along the Andhra Pradesh coast on Wednesday, bringing heavy rainfall, powerful winds and flooding to several coastal districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the storm’s centre remained close to the coastline, with the northern spiral band moving further inland.
The cyclone was expected to cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Narsapur and south of Yanam. It packed sustained winds of 125 to 135 kmph, with gusts reaching 150 kmph, posing a serious threat to coastal settlements.
Flooding, Uprooted Trees Disrupt Coastal Areas
Several districts, including Kakinada, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari and Visakhapatnam, experienced heavy rainfall and strong winds. Flooded roads, uprooted trees and damage to houses were reported in affected areas.
In Kakinada, seawater entered residential localities, while police rescued four people stranded in floodwaters near Bombay Katta. Sections of roads were blocked by fallen trees, disrupting movement and complicating emergency operations.
Rainfall exceeding 200 mm was recorded at multiple locations across Anakapalli, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam districts, increasing concerns over flooding and agricultural losses.
Over 84,000 People Shifted to Shelters
The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) said 84,396 people had been evacuated to shelters across the state as a precautionary measure. Authorities arranged relief facilities, medical teams and emergency services while urging residents in vulnerable areas to follow official advisories.
Train and Flight Services Hit
At least 91 trains and 21 flights were cancelled on Tuesday and Wednesday amid the cyclone threat. The disruptions affected passenger movement across the coastal region, with railway authorities and airlines implementing precautionary measures.
The impact also extended towards neighbouring Odisha, where officials prepared evacuation measures and placed rescue teams on alert. Heavy rainfall and strong winds were expected to continue across affected regions even after the cyclone completed its landfall.