Cyclone Montha is intensifying in the Bay of Bengal and is expected to make landfall as a severe cyclonic storm near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, on the evening or night of October 28, 2025. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal.
Current Status and Forecast
As of October 26, 2025, the low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a deep depression. The IMD predicts that Cyclone Montha will likely form by October 27th. Weather models suggest that after forming, the cyclone could make landfall around October 28th, potentially near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. The IMD will provide a clearer trajectory once the low-pressure area becomes a depression.
Areas Affected and Rainfall Warnings
Andhra Pradesh is bracing for the impact of Cyclone Montha, with normal life expected to be affected starting October 26, 2025. Heavy rains are predicted for many parts of the state. The Rayalaseema region is under alert for extreme heavy rainfall (over 210mm in 24 hours) on October 27 and 28. Light to moderate rainfall has already begun over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam and is expected to continue for the next five to six days.
The IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts for several districts in Odisha, particularly in the southern regions. These alerts indicate the potential for significant impact from the cyclone's effects.
Expected Wind Speeds
At the time of landfall, wind speeds are expected to reach 90-100 km/hr, with gusts up to 110 km/hr. These strong winds pose a threat to infrastructure and could cause significant damage.
Preparations and Precautions
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to remain alert and ensure essential services are not disrupted, especially during landfall. District collectors in Guntur, Nellore, Chittor, Kakinada, Bapatla, and YSR Kadapa have established special control rooms to assist residents. The Chief Minister has also recommended declaring holidays for educational institutions and ensuring real-time information dissemination. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are being deployed to vulnerable districts. "Hospitals on wheels" are being prepared in Kakinada. Measures are being taken to ensure uninterrupted power and drinking water supply in the affected districts. Most coastal districts and the Rayalaseema region have declared holidays for educational institutions on October 27 and 28.
The Indian Coast Guard has advised fishermen at sea to return to shore.
Cyclone Naming
Cyclone Montha was named by Thailand. This is the second cyclone to develop in October 2025, following Cyclone Shakthi in the Arabian Sea.
