Cyclone Montha, which has morphed into a severe cyclonic storm, is fast approaching Andhra Pradesh’s Kakinada, according to weather experts. As of 5:30 am on Tuesday, the storm lies about 190 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam and 270 kms off Kakinada.
It will move towards north-northwest and cross the Andhra coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around Kakinada on Tuesday evening as a severe cyclonic storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 90-100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph.
The state is already witnessing heavy rains not just in Kakinada, but also in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, Nellore, and Konaseema districts. In Kakkinada, the effect is already visible in the Uppada coast. According to local media reports, the beach road from Uppada to Kakinada has been destroyed, and the intensity of waves has damaged the roads. Traffic is on a standstill, and there are reports about many roads collapsing.
The seventh danger warning has been issued for Kakinada port. The sixth danger warning has been issued for Visakhapatnam and Gangavaram ports; the fifth danger warning has been issued for Machilipatnam, Nizampatnam, and Krishnapatnam ports.
Government on alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the coastal districts, which also face the threat of flash floods. The Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority said a storm surge of about one metre above the astronomical tide is also expected along the coast, which may inundate low-lying areas.
The number of RTC buses, trains, and flights has already been reduced. Holidays have been canceled, and officials of all departments have been alerted. Holidays have been declared for schools in coastal districts today.
