Cyclone ‘Arnab’ intensifies: Andhra, Odisha brace for very severe storm

Cyclone ‘Arnab’ is intensifying into a very severe cyclonic storm, with the IMD warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and winds reaching up to 125 kmph near landfall. The storm is forecast to cross the coast near Yanam, between Bapatla and Machilipatnam, in the early hours of October 28. Andhra Pradesh is preparing for potential impacts, while heavy rain has caused waterlogging in parts of Odisha’s Puri district. Tourist and passenger boat services in Chilika Lake have been suspended, rescue teams are on standby, and Paradip Port is providing shelter to fishing boats and fishermen.