Cyclone MoNtha: Severe Weather Alert for Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for a severe cyclonic storm named Montha, which is currently forming over the Bay of Bengal. This system is expected to intensify rapidly and make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast near Kakinada between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam by the evening or night of October 28, 2025.
Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds Expected
The depression that has developed over the southeast Bay of Bengal is moving west-northwest at 8 kmph. It lies about 550 km west of Port Blair, 850 km east-southeast of Chennai, and 890 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam and Kakinada as of October 25, 11:30 pm. The system is forecasted to strengthen into a deep depression on October 26, then into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 27, and finally into a severe cyclonic storm by the morning of October 28.
Due to Cyclone Montha, Andhra Pradesh will face heavy to very heavy rainfall mainly on October 27 and 28, especially in Yanam and Rayalaseema regions, with a yellow warning applicable statewide from October 26. Odisha will experience heavy to very heavy rain on October 28 and 29 in districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri. Wind speeds in these areas are expected to reach 60-70 km/h, with gusts up to 80 km/h.
Rain Forecast for Tamil Nadu
Moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is forecast at isolated locations in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, and Nagapattinam districts on October 25. Light to moderate rains will cover Tiruvallur, Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Kanchipuram districts.
Heavy rainfall may start as early as October 25 in Cuddalore, Villupuram, Chengalpet, and Puducherry, spreading to Chennai, Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, and Ranipet by October 26. On October 27, heavy downpours with intense rainfall are likely in Chengalpet, Kanchipuram, Vellore, and particularly Chennai. By October 28, the heavy rains may ease but will continue mainly in Tiruvallur and Ranipet districts.
Precautionary Measures and Advisory
Authorities have alerted residents of vulnerable coastal and inland areas to remain vigilant and follow official instructions to minimize risk from strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential coastal flooding during the cyclone period. Emergency services and disaster management teams are on standby.
Summary
Cyclone Montha is forming in the Bay of Bengal and will likely strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm by October 28.
Landfall is expected near Kakinada on the evening or night of October 28.
Andhra Pradesh and Odisha will receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, with wind speeds up to 70 km/h and gusts of 80 km/h.
Tamil Nadu districts including Chennai will experience intense rainfall and thunderstorms from October 25 to 27.
Residents are advised to stay alert and adhere to weather warnings and safety protocols.