Cyclone Alert: Depression Intensifies Over Bay of Bengal, Odisha on High Alert

A depression has formed over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal after a well-marked low-pressure area intensified, raising the possibility of a severe cyclonic storm approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast. Odisha is also likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall from October 27, with several districts placed under weather alerts.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the depression was located approximately 510 km north-northwest of Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was also situated around 820 km east-southeast of Visakhapatnam, 910 km east-southeast of Kakinada, 1,020 km east of Machilipatnam and 1,100 km east of Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh.

Depression Likely to Intensify Into Severe Cyclonic Storm

According to the weather forecast, the depression is likely to move southwards on October 25 and intensify into a deep depression. It is then expected to gradually move west-northwestwards.

The system may intensify into a cyclonic storm over the east-central and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26. It is likely to strengthen further into a severe cyclonic storm by the morning of October 27.

The system is subsequently expected to move northwestwards and intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm by the morning of October 28, approaching the west-central Bay of Bengal near the Andhra Pradesh coast.

Where Will the Cyclone Make Landfall?

According to the IMD forecast cited in the report, the very severe cyclonic storm may cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam along the Andhra Pradesh coast, near Puducherry, by the forenoon of October 28.

At the time of landfall, the storm is expected to pack sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 140 kmph.

However, the system’s actual track, intensity and landfall location may change as it develops. The latest IMD bulletins will be crucial for tracking its movement.

Odisha on Alert as Heavy Rain Forecast From October 27

Although the current forecast indicates a possible landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast, several parts of Odisha are likely to experience heavy rainfall due to the system.

An orange alert has been issued for the following districts for October 27:

• Jagatsinghpur
• Rayagada
• Koraput
• Malkangiri
• Gajapati
• Ganjam
• Puri

The situation may worsen on October 28, particularly in southern Odisha.

A red warning has been issued for Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati and Ganjam districts, indicating the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall.

An orange alert has also been issued for Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Mayurbhanj, Subarnapur, Boudh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh districts.

Authorities have advised residents to remain alert and follow official weather updates as the situation develops.

Odisha Government Steps Up Cyclone Preparedness

The Odisha government has started preparations to deal with the possible impact of the developing cyclonic system.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has participated in a review meeting to assess the situation and discuss preparedness measures. The administration is monitoring the weather forecast and the possible impact on vulnerable districts.

Southern Odisha districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri, are considered particularly vulnerable to heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Wind speeds of around 80–90 kmph have also been cited as a possibility in parts of the state, depending on the system’s movement and intensity.

Schools, Colleges and Anganwadi Centres to Remain Closed for Two Days

As a precautionary measure, the Odisha government has decided to close schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in five southern districts on October 28 and 29.

The closure will apply to:

1. Ganjam
2. Gajapati
3. Rayagada
4. Koraput
5. Malkangiri

Collectors in other districts may decide whether to suspend educational activities depending on local weather conditions and the prevailing situation, the Chief Minister said.

Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

With the depression expected to intensify over the next few days, the IMD and the Odisha administration are closely monitoring the system. Further changes in the cyclone’s intensity, trajectory and expected landfall will determine the extent of its impact on Odisha and neighbouring Andhra Pradesh.