Cyclone Arnab Touches Down in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh with Intense Rainfall

On October 27, 2026, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that very severe cyclonic storm Arnab started making landfall along the coasts of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, unleashing heavy rainfall and strong winds in the affected regions. The agency noted that the storm’s northern spiral band had moved onto land, intensifying the local weather conditions (The Hindu).

How intense is the rainfall from Cyclone Arnab?

The IMD reported that the storm is delivering intense downpours across multiple districts, with several areas already experiencing flash flooding and water‑logged roads. Meteorologists described the rain as “very severe,” and local authorities have begun rescue operations for residents trapped by sudden inundation.

What alerts has the IMD issued for residents?

The department has raised a red alert for coastal districts of both states, the highest level of warning, and has urged people to move to designated shelters. Emergency crews have been deployed to assist with evacuations, and the IMD continues to monitor the cyclone’s progress, updating forecasts every three hours (The Hindu).

What are the expected impacts and next steps?

State governments in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have opened temporary relief camps, stocked food and medical supplies, and are coordinating with the National Disaster Response Force to clear debris and restore power. Officials expect the storm to linger for several hours before moving inland, after which rainfall will gradually subside but residual flooding may persist.

Cyclone activity peaks in the Indian Ocean during the pre‑monsoon and post‑monsoon periods, and the eastern coast has a history of severe storms. In 2019, Cyclone Fani caused widespread damage in Odisha, prompting massive evacuation efforts that set a benchmark for disaster response. Arnab follows a similar pattern, underscoring the region’s vulnerability and the importance of early warning systems. Continued vigilance and swift relief measures are crucial to minimise loss of life and property as the cyclone moves inland.