Cyclone Montha intensifies into severe storm, set to hit land soon; government ramps up preparations

BENGALURU: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that Cyclone Montha is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Tuesday morning. Ahead of the cyclone's landfall, the Andhra Pradesh government has stepped up precautionary measures. According to the IMD, the cyclone is likely to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam.

A heavy rain alert has been issued in 23 districts of Andhra Pradesh, with Srikakulam placed under high alert. A red alert has been declared in seven districts, including Prakasam, Nellore, West Godavari, and Kakinada. As part of precautionary measures, street vendors have been evacuated from footpaths. The state government has also instructed officials to ensure adequate supplies of food grains, fuel, and other essential commodities. People living in low-lying areas are being relocated to safer places. Schools in several districts, including Kakinada and West Godavari, have been closed.

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall is also expected in Kerala, where the IMD has issued an orange alert for Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts. The department has forecast very heavy rainfall, ranging between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm within 24 hours. A yellow alert has been issued for Alappuzha, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Wayanad districts.