Cyclone alert issued for Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha as a powerful Bay of Bengal storm could make landfall on October 28, with wind gusts reaching 140 kmph. (Images: X)
Bhubaneshwar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone alert for the Andhra Pradesh coast and adjoining areas of southern Odisha, warning of a potentially powerful storm over the Bay of Bengal that could intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm by October 28, 2026. The developing weather system is expected to strengthen over the coming days, with coastal areas facing the possibility of powerful winds and severe weather conditions. According to IMD forecast, the cyclone could make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of October 28, 2026.
The weather system is currently positioned over the east-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of the southeast Bay of Bengal. IMD expects it to initially move southwards before changing direction and gaining strength. The system is forecast to intensify into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26. It could subsequently strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm on October 27 before developing into a very severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal, near the Andhra Pradesh coast by the morning of October 28. The forecast indicates a potentially significant escalation in the system's intensity as it approaches India's eastern coastline.
The IMD has identified the coastal stretch between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam as the likely landfall zone. The forecast also includes the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts, while adjoining southern Odisha remains within the area of concern. Landfall is expected by the forenoon of October 28, although the projected track and timing may change as the weather system develops. The exact location and intensity at landfall will depend on the cyclone's subsequent movement.
The cyclone could bring sustained winds of 115–125 kmph at landfall, with gusts potentially reaching 140 kmph, according to the forecast provided. Winds of this intensity can pose serious risks to coastal communities, infrastructure and transport, particularly in areas directly exposed to the storm. The potential impact will depend on the final track, the cyclone's strength and local weather conditions.
The coming days will be crucial for determining the cyclone's movement, intensity and likely impact along the eastern coast. The forecast trajectory points towards a gradual intensification from October 26, followed by further strengthening on October 27, 2026 and a possible landfall on October 28, 2026. Residents in potentially affected coastal districts should monitor official IMD bulletins and advisories issued by local authorities.
Any instructions regarding evacuation, fishing activities, transport or public safety should be followed promptly. The situation remains dependent on the evolving weather system, and subsequent forecasts will be important in establishing the precise landfall location and the extent of the expected impact.
