Cyclone likely to hit Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, extremely heavy rainfall expected in Odisha: IMD DG, Watch

25 Oct 2026, 16:36 by Himanshu · KalingaTV

Bhubaneswar: The cyclonic system developing over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam on October 28, India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said on Sunday.

Speaking to Kalinga TV, Mohapatra, popularly known as the ‘Cyclone Man of India’, said the weather system had intensified into a deep depression over the east-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal.

The system is currently moving slowly westwards and is expected to gradually turn northwestwards.

According to the IMD DG, the deep depression is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26 and further strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm by the morning of October 27.

It is subsequently expected to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm before crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28.

Odisha to experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall

Although the cyclone is expected to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh, its impact will be felt across several districts of Odisha, particularly in the southern region.

Mohapatra said rainfall activity would begin increasing from October 26, with heavy to very heavy rainfall likely in southern Odisha on October 27.

The intensity of rainfall is expected to increase significantly on October 28, when some places in southern Odisha may experience extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 30 cm.

While rainfall is likely across most parts of Odisha, the southern districts are expected to receive the highest precipitation.

Koraput, Malkangiri, Rayagada and Nabarangpur are among the districts likely to experience intense rainfall as the cyclone moves inland after crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast.

Wind speed may reach 70–80 kmph in southern Odisha

The IMD DG said strong winds are also expected in southern Odisha under the influence of the cyclonic system.

Coastal areas of southern Odisha may experience wind speeds of around 40–50 kmph, while winds could reach 60–70 kmph, gusting up to 80 kmph, in some southern districts, particularly areas close to the cyclone’s inland track.

Mohapatra cautioned that such winds could uproot small trees, break branches and cause localised damage to vulnerable structures.

However, he clarified that the cyclone’s main impact and the highest wind speeds are expected along the Andhra Pradesh coast, where the system is forecast to make landfall.

Sea conditions to become extremely rough, fishermen warned

The IMD has warned that sea conditions over the Bay of Bengal will deteriorate considerably as the cyclone intensifies.

According to Mohapatra, the sea is already rough over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal and is expected to become increasingly turbulent.

Sea conditions may become very high to phenomenal by October 28, with waves potentially reaching heights of around 14 metres in the open sea.

The IMD DG stressed that fishing operations should remain completely suspended during the dangerous weather period.

He also urged maritime authorities to take necessary precautions regarding the movement of boats and ships.

Sea conditions are expected to gradually improve from October 29.

Landslide and flash flood risks in southern Odisha

Apart from strong winds and heavy rainfall, Mohapatra warned of possible landslides and flash floods in vulnerable areas.

He said the hilly regions of southern Odisha, including parts of Gajapati, Koraput, Rayagada and Malkangiri, could experience landslides due to intense rainfall.

Heavy downpours may also cause waterlogging, localised flooding and disruptions to road connectivity.

The IMD DG advised people to remain cautious while travelling through hilly areas, as heavy rainfall could reduce visibility and increase the risk of road accidents.

He also warned that intense rainfall over a short period could trigger sudden flooding in small rivers and streams.

Heavy rainfall likely in Chhattisgarh too

After crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast, the cyclonic system is expected to move gradually north-northwestwards towards Chhattisgarh.

Mohapatra said extremely heavy rainfall is likely in parts of southern Chhattisgarh on October 28, followed by intense rainfall in northern Chhattisgarh on October 29.

He cautioned that rainfall in the catchment areas of major rivers could increase river levels and create flood-related concerns.

Relevant agencies, including the Central Water Commission, are monitoring the situation and issuing necessary advisories.

No major change expected in cyclone’s track

Responding to questions about a possible change in the cyclone’s direction, Mohapatra said the current forecast continues to indicate landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam.

He said no major change in the predicted track is indicated at present, although the system is being continuously monitored.

The IMD DG expressed confidence in the advancement of cyclone forecasting technology, saying modern scientific tools have significantly improved the accuracy of weather predictions.

He urged people to follow official IMD bulletins and advisories issued by the authorities rather than relying on rumours or unverified information.

While Odisha is unlikely to face a direct landfall under the current forecast, Mohapatra emphasised that the state must remain prepared for heavy rainfall, strong winds, possible landslides and localised flooding, particularly in the southern districts.

Watch the video here:

Cyclone likely to hit Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, extremely heavy rainfall expected in Odisha: IMD DG, Watch

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