53 trains cancelled, schools shut as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over Bay of Bengal, ready to strike Andhra Pradesh and surrounding areas.
October 27, 2026: Cyclone Arnab is intensifying over the Bay of Bengal and is forecast to strike the Andhra Pradesh–Yanam coast on Wednesday, October 28, bringing potentially destructive winds, torrential rainfall and the threat of coastal flooding. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast sustained winds of 115–125 km/h, with gusts reaching 140 km/h, as the cyclone approaches the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam.
The approaching cyclone has triggered emergency preparations across Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring Odisha, with authorities racing to move vulnerable residents to safety and minimise casualties.
Red alert as coastal districts prepare for impact
The cyclone is expected to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm before making landfall. Coastal communities face the risk of damaging winds, uprooted trees, power disruptions, flooding and damage to homes and infrastructure.
The IMD has warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. The storm’s effects may extend inland, with rainfall warnings also issued for other eastern and central parts of the country. Residents in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas have been urged to follow official advisories and evacuation instructions.
53 trains cancelled, schools shut as emergency measures intensify
The approaching storm has already disrupted transport and daily life.
- Rail services: South Coast Railway has listed 53 train services for cancellation on October 27 and 28. Passengers have been advised to check the status of their specific trains before travelling.
- Schools and colleges: Educational institutions have been ordered to close in affected areas as a precaution.
- Evacuations: Authorities are shifting people from vulnerable locations to safer shelters.
- Rescue operations: National and state disaster response teams are being mobilised, with emergency services placed on alert.
- Fishing restrictions: Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea as dangerous conditions develop.
The Andhra Pradesh government has released ₹27 crore for emergency relief and response operations across 20 districts, including evacuation, essential supplies, medical assistance and rehabilitation arrangements.
Zero-casualty target as the storm approaches
Authorities are emphasising preparedness, rapid evacuations and coordinated rescue operations to prevent loss of life. Officials are also preparing for potential damage to electricity networks, roads, crops and coastal infrastructure.
The next 24–48 hours are critical for communities along the projected path. Residents should secure loose outdoor objects, keep essential medicines and documents accessible, avoid flooded roads and coastal areas, and follow instructions from district administrations.
Cyclone Arnab is a serious developing weather threat. The priority now is to protect lives, ensure timely evacuation and keep emergency services ready for the impact.
JANPATH NEWS NETWORK (JNN)
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