Cyclone Montha is set to form over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by October 27, resulting in heavy rainfall and strong winds across Kerala and several other states along India's east coast.
Cyclone Formation and Trajectory
A depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal is strengthening, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects it to become Cyclone Montha by October 27.
The storm is predicted to track northwest, targeting Andhra Pradesh and northern Tamil Nadu, with landfall possible around October 28 to 29.
The name “Montha” is contributed by Thailand and means “fragrant flower” or “beautiful flower”.
Rainfall and Alerts for Kerala
The northeast monsoon will intensify rain across Kerala due to the brewing cyclone, with continued heavy rainfall and strong winds expected until at least October 28.
A yellow alert has been issued for Kannur and Kasaragod districts on October 25, and more districts are under yellow and orange alerts over the weekend and into early next week.
Several areas in Kerala have experienced overnight downpours causing waterlogging, power outages, and damage to homes and infrastructure.
Dam authorities have begun opening spillway shutters due to rising water levels in major reservoirs.
The IMD has advised fishermen to avoid the sea off Kerala, Karnataka, Lakshadweep, and Tamil Nadu coasts through Tuesday due to turbulent conditions and winds reaching up to 55 km/h.
Impact on Other States.
The cyclone is expected to bring very heavy rain and strong winds to Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal, with orange alerts in critical districts.
Chennai and surrounding districts may see heavy to very heavy rainfall peaking around October 27.
Coastal Andhra Pradesh, particularly near Kakinada, is anticipated to face landfall by the evening or night of October 28, with wind speeds in the range of 90-100 km/h.
Safety Measures
Authorities have ramped up emergency preparations in high-risk areas, including travel and fishing advisories, and have called for resident vigilance against flooding and infrastructural disruptions.
Residents in Kerala and the eastern coastal states should closely follow IMD updates and adhere to local safety advisories as Cyclone Montha develops and approaches landfall.
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