Cyclone ‘Arnab’ Threat: Andhra, Odisha and Bengal on High Alert
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Cyclone ‘Arnab’ Threat: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal on Alert as Bay System Intensifies
A weather system over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression and is expected to strengthen further into a deep depression, putting parts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal on alert.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system is moving west-northwestwards and is expected to cross the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur during the night of September 23 and early hours of September 24.
The system has not yet been officially classified as a cyclone. If it develops into a cyclonic storm, the name ‘Arnab’, contributed by Bangladesh, would be used.
Heavy Rain, Strong Winds Expected
The developing system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to parts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, with the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall in some areas. Coastal conditions are also likely to remain rough, prompting warnings to fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea.
In West Bengal, Kolkata and several districts are expected to experience rain and thunderstorms. Gusty winds of around 30–40 kmph are likely in parts of South Bengal, while rainfall intensity may increase during the day.
Odisha authorities have stepped up preparedness, with schools and Anganwadi centres closed in several affected districts as a precaution against heavy rainfall.
