Cyclone Arnab: When Will It Make Landfall? Check States and Districts on Alert

Cyclone Arnab has intensified over the Bay of Bengal into a very severe cyclonic storm, prompting authorities across India’s eastern coast to step up preparations ahead of its expected landfall on Wednesday, October 28.

Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are among the states preparing for heavy rainfall, strong winds and possible flooding, while the Centre has urged other states to remain vigilant.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a potentially damaging storm, with evacuations, school closures and disaster-response deployments being undertaken in vulnerable areas.

When will Cyclone Arnab make landfall?

Cyclone Arnab is forecast to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

According to the IMD forecast reported on October 27, the storm could bring sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 140 kmph. The cyclone’s exact track and intensity may change, so residents should continue to follow official weather bulletins.

Which states and areas are on alert?

1. Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is expected to face the most direct impact, with the projected landfall zone extending along the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam.

Districts being monitored and prepared for potential impacts include Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna, NTR, Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Prakasam and Nellore. Authorities have begun moving people from vulnerable, low-lying locations and deploying disaster-response teams.

Coastal areas could experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds, localised flooding and disruptions to transport and essential services.

2. Odisha

Southern Odisha is also preparing for heavy rainfall and associated hazards. Districts of concern include Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri and Nabarangpur.

The state government has mobilised officials to oversee preparations and restricted fishing and access to certain vulnerable tourist locations. Some educational institutions in affected districts are also scheduled to close as a precaution.

3. Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Puducherry

Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Puducherry have also been included in wider preparedness measures as the weather system approaches the coast. Heavy rainfall could affect some inland areas even if the cyclone’s centre does not pass directly over them.

4. Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh

The effects of the cyclone could extend well beyond the coast. Heavy rainfall is forecast in parts of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh later in the week as the weather system moves inland and weakens.

These areas are not in the projected coastal landfall zone, but residents should monitor local IMD rainfall warnings, particularly for possible waterlogging and transport disruption.

What precautions are authorities taking?

State and central agencies have intensified emergency preparations, including evacuations from vulnerable locations, deployment of National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force teams, and arrangements for temporary shelters.

Authorities have also advised fishermen not to venture into the sea during the warning period. School closures and local restrictions may vary by district, depending on the latest forecasts and government orders.

Residents in affected areas should:

• Follow evacuation instructions issued by district authorities.
• Stay indoors during strong winds and keep away from windows, trees and electrical poles.
• Avoid flooded roads, rivers, beaches and damaged power lines.
• Keep drinking water, essential medicines, a torch, charged phones and important documents ready.
• Check official IMD bulletins and state disaster-management advisories before travelling.

What happens after landfall?

Even after the cyclone crosses the coast, heavy rain and gusty winds may continue to affect inland districts. Flooding, fallen trees, power outages and disruptions to road and rail services are possible in vulnerable locations.

The timing and severity of these impacts will depend on the cyclone’s actual landfall, forward movement and intensity. Residents should not assume conditions are safe simply because the storm has moved away from the coastline.

Conclusion

Cyclone Arnab is expected to make landfall near the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the morning of October 28. Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha face the principal coastal risks, while parts of Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh could experience rainfall-related impacts.

The forecast remains subject to change. Residents should rely on the latest IMD warnings and instructions from local authorities, especially if they live in low-lying or coastal areas.