Severe Cyclone Montha Nears Andhra Coast; Landfall Expected Between Kakinada and Machilipatnam

Cyclone Montha over the west-central Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and is moving at a speed of 15 kmph over the past six hours.

According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, the system is currently centered 190 km from Machilipatnam, 270 km from Kakinada, and 340 km from Visakhapatnam.

The cyclone is expected to cross the coast tonight between Kakinada and Machilipatnam, accompanied by strong winds reaching 90–110 kmph.

Under its influence, very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is likely across coastal Andhra districts from Srikakulam to Nellore, with isolated areas expected to receive exceptionally heavy rainfall.

Officials have urged people to stay indoors and remain safe, assuring that the government machinery is fully prepared to handle any emergency.