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A powerful weather system over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab, bringing the threat of heavy rainfall, damaging winds and possible flooding across parts of eastern India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that the cyclone will approach the Andhra Pradesh coast and make landfall near the coastal stretch between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam on October 28, 2026.
The approaching cyclone has triggered emergency preparedness measures in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and other affected regions. Authorities have issued weather alerts, closed educational institutions in vulnerable areas and announced precautionary railway cancellations. Meanwhile, the cyclone’s remnants could carry moisture towards northern India and Nepal, potentially increasing rainfall activity in these regions.
As of October 27, Cyclone Arnab is moving towards the Indian coastline, and the next 24 to 48 hours are expected to be crucial for coastal communities.
Cyclone Arnab Latest News: Key Highlights
Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab is currently over the west-central Bay of Bengal and is expected to move northwestwards towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.
Here are the major developments:
- Cyclone intensity: Arnab has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm.
- Expected landfall: October 28, 2026, near the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam.
- Wind speed: Sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph.
- Heavy rainfall: Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall on October 27 and 28.
- Odisha weather alert: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely on October 28.
- Northern India rainfall: The remnants of the cyclone could influence rainfall across parts of Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Nepal.
- Travel disruption: South Coast Railway has announced the cancellation of 53 train services on October 27 and/or October 28.
- School closures: Educational institutions in several vulnerable areas have been ordered to remain closed as a precaution.
These developments have been reported in the latest cyclone updates published by Hindustan Times and Down To Earth. Source
What Is the Current Status of Cyclone Arnab?
Cyclone Arnab has strengthened significantly over the Bay of Bengal and is now classified as a very severe cyclonic storm.
According to the latest IMD forecast reported on October 27, the cyclone is expected to continue moving west-northwestwards before turning northwestwards towards the Andhra Pradesh coastline. The storm is likely to cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, by the forenoon of October 28.
The cyclone’s projected movement has placed several coastal districts under heightened weather surveillance. As the system approaches land, the combination of strong winds, intense rainfall and possible storm-related flooding could create dangerous conditions.
The storm was reported to be approximately 300 km from Visakhapatnam, 360 km from Kakinada, 460 km from Machilipatnam and 530 km from Bapatla in the latest assessment cited by Hindustan Times.
These distances indicate that the cyclone is approaching the eastern coastline, making preparedness and timely evacuation particularly important for people living in vulnerable coastal areas.
Cyclone Arnab Landfall Date and Location
The expected landfall of Cyclone Arnab is one of the most important developments for residents of Andhra Pradesh and nearby regions.
The IMD has forecast that the cyclone will cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, by the forenoon of Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
The storm is expected to bring sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching approximately 140 kmph during the landfall process.
A cyclone’s landfall occurs when its centre moves from the sea onto land. However, its effects are not limited to the exact location where the centre crosses the coastline.
Strong winds, heavy rainfall, rough seas and flooding can affect areas located far from the landfall point. Therefore, residents across coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and adjoining districts should remain alert even if their locations are not directly along the predicted track.
The exact landfall location and timing may change as the cyclone moves closer to the coast. Residents should follow the latest IMD bulletins and instructions issued by local disaster management authorities.
Cyclone Arnab IMD Weather Forecast: Which States Will Be Affected?
Cyclone Arnab is expected to influence weather conditions across several Indian states. While Andhra Pradesh is likely to experience the most direct impact, the cyclone’s rainfall effects could extend towards Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and other northern regions.
Andhra Pradesh: Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds
Andhra Pradesh is expected to experience the most significant impact from Cyclone Arnab.
Coastal districts could witness heavy to very heavy rainfall on October 27 and 28. Strong winds, waterlogging, coastal flooding and disruptions to road transportation are among the major concerns.
The IMD has issued a red alert for several districts, including Eluru, NTR, Krishna, Konaseema, Kakinada, East Godavari, West Godavari, Guntur, Alluri Sitharama Raju, Anakapalli and Visakhapatnam.
The state government has released ₹27 crore for cyclone preparedness and relief operations across 20 districts. Authorities are also taking steps to minimise damage and protect residents in vulnerable areas.
Educational institutions in cyclone-hit areas have been ordered to close, while beaches have been shut to the public. Restrictions on coastal road movement are also expected as the cyclone approaches.
Odisha: Heavy Rainfall and Emergency Preparedness
Although Cyclone Arnab is not expected to make landfall directly in Odisha, the state could experience significant weather disturbances.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of Odisha on October 28. Strong winds and the possibility of localised flooding have prompted authorities to strengthen emergency preparedness.
The Odisha government has deployed disaster response teams in vulnerable areas. These include personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), Fire and Emergency Services and the police.
Schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in six southern districts have been ordered to remain closed on October 28 and 29.
The affected districts are:
- Ganjam
- Gajapati
- Rayagada
- Malkangiri
- Koraput
- Nabarangpur
Farmers have also been advised to harvest and safely store crops that are approximately 80–85% mature to reduce potential losses from heavy rainfall.
Chhattisgarh: Rainfall Alert for October 28 and 29
The effects of Cyclone Arnab are expected to extend inland towards Chhattisgarh.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in parts of the state on October 28 and 29. The cyclone’s movement after landfall could transport moisture towards central India, increasing the possibility of rainfall.
The impact will depend on the cyclone’s movement, intensity and interaction with other weather systems.
Residents in vulnerable areas should monitor local weather forecasts, especially where heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging or flooding.
Uttar Pradesh: Unseasonal Rainfall Expected
Cyclone Arnab could also influence weather conditions in Uttar Pradesh after making landfall.
The cyclone’s remnants are expected to move towards northwestern India, potentially bringing unseasonal rainfall to eastern Uttar Pradesh between October 28 and 30.
Lucknow and several other districts could experience rain, thunderstorms and strong winds.
The IMD has issued weather alerts for different districts, with yellow and orange alerts indicating the possibility of rainfall and strong winds.
The expected rainfall could also bring a noticeable reduction in daytime temperatures across parts of the state.
Nepal: Possible Rainfall Impact From Cyclone Arnab
The weather impact of Cyclone Arnab could extend beyond India.
According to Down To Earth, the cyclone’s remnants may move towards Uttar Pradesh and Nepal after crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast.
The interaction between the cyclone’s remnants and a western disturbance could potentially increase rainfall over parts of northern India and Nepal.
Such interactions can influence the movement of moisture and atmospheric instability, sometimes resulting in intense rainfall.
However, the extent of the rainfall will depend on how the cyclone’s remnants interact with the western disturbance and other atmospheric conditions.
How Strong Will Cyclone Arnab Be During Landfall?
Cyclone Arnab is expected to maintain very severe cyclonic storm intensity as it approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast.
The IMD forecast indicates sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph.
Such wind speeds can cause significant damage, particularly in coastal areas with vulnerable infrastructure.
Potential impacts include damage to temporary structures, falling trees, disruption to electricity supply, damage to communication networks and difficulties in road transportation.
Heavy rainfall accompanying the cyclone could also lead to waterlogging, flash flooding and disruption to essential services.
The actual damage will depend on the cyclone’s intensity at landfall, the duration of strong winds, rainfall distribution and the preparedness of local communities.
What Does Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Mean?
Cyclones are classified according to their maximum sustained wind speeds.
The India Meteorological Department uses the following classification for cyclonic storms in the North Indian Ocean region:
| Cyclone Category | Maximum Sustained Wind Speed |
|---|---|
| Depression | Up to 31 kmph |
| Deep Depression | 32–50 kmph |
| Cyclonic Storm | 51–62 kmph |
| Severe Cyclonic Storm | 63–88 kmph |
| Very Severe Cyclonic Storm | 89–117 kmph |
| Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm | 118–166 kmph |
| Super Cyclonic Storm | 167 kmph or higher |
The classification is based on sustained wind speeds, not short-duration gusts.
Cyclone Arnab’s forecast wind speeds of 115–125 kmph place it within the very severe cyclonic storm category under the IMD’s classification system.
It is important to understand that a cyclone’s category does not provide a complete picture of its potential impact. Rainfall intensity, storm surge, coastal geography and population exposure also play important roles in determining the level of damage.
Why Is Cyclone Arnab Moving Towards Andhra Pradesh?
Cyclones form over warm ocean waters when atmospheric conditions support the development of a low-pressure system.
The process generally begins with a low-pressure area that develops over the sea. As warm, moist air rises, it creates lower pressure near the ocean surface. More air moves towards the low-pressure area, and the system can gradually intensify.
When atmospheric conditions are favourable, the system may develop into a depression, deep depression and eventually a cyclonic storm.
According to Down To Earth, the weather system associated with Cyclone Arnab developed over the Bay of Bengal after a low-pressure area formed on October 23.
The system intensified into a depression on October 24 and a deep depression on October 25 before developing into Cyclone Arnab.
The cyclone formed over the Bay of Bengal on October 26 and continued strengthening as it moved towards the Indian coastline.
The storm’s movement is influenced by larger atmospheric circulation patterns, including surrounding pressure systems and prevailing winds.
The interaction between Cyclone Arnab and another low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal could also influence its intensity.
Could Cyclone Arnab Bring Heavy Rainfall to Northern India?
One of the most significant aspects of Cyclone Arnab is the possibility of rainfall extending beyond the eastern coastline.
After making landfall in Andhra Pradesh, the cyclone is expected to weaken as it moves over land. However, the system’s remnants could continue carrying substantial moisture.
These remnants may move towards Uttar Pradesh and Nepal, where they could interact with a western disturbance.
A western disturbance is a weather system that generally originates in the Mediterranean region and moves towards South Asia. It can bring rainfall and snowfall to parts of northern India and neighbouring regions.
When a tropical cyclone’s remnants interact with a western disturbance, the combination can sometimes create favourable conditions for intense rainfall.
Down To Earth has highlighted the possibility of such an interaction involving Cyclone Arnab.
However, the exact intensity and distribution of rainfall remain dependent on the cyclone’s movement and atmospheric conditions.
Residents in northern India should therefore monitor official forecasts rather than assume that the cyclone will bring the same level of rainfall to every region.
Cyclone Arnab: Train Cancellations and Travel Disruptions
Cyclone Arnab has already triggered precautionary measures in railway operations.
South Coast Railway has announced the cancellation of 53 train services on October 27 and/or October 28.
The cancellations are intended to reduce risks associated with the approaching cyclone and ensure passenger safety.
Travellers planning to journey through Andhra Pradesh and nearby regions should check their train status before leaving for railway stations.
Passengers should also monitor official railway announcements for changes in schedules, cancellations, diversions and other travel-related updates.
Road transportation may also be affected by heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding and restrictions imposed by local authorities.
People planning travel to coastal Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and nearby regions should reconsider non-essential journeys during the cyclone’s landfall period.
Cyclone Arnab Safety Guidelines: What Should Residents Do?
Cyclone preparedness is essential for reducing the risk of injuries, property damage and disruption to essential services.
Residents in vulnerable areas should follow instructions issued by local authorities and take precautionary measures before the cyclone makes landfall.
Before the Cyclone Makes Landfall
People living in coastal and low-lying areas should prepare for possible flooding, strong winds and temporary disruptions to electricity and communication services.
Important precautions include:
- Keep essential medicines, drinking water, food and emergency supplies ready.
- Charge mobile phones, power banks and emergency lights.
- Secure loose objects, outdoor furniture and other items that strong winds could carry.
- Keep important documents in waterproof bags.
- Follow evacuation instructions issued by local authorities.
- Avoid travelling to beaches, coastal roads and other exposed locations.
- Check the safety of elderly family members, children and people who require additional assistance.
During the Cyclone
When strong winds and heavy rainfall begin, residents should remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement.
Stay away from windows, glass doors and exposed structures. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or walk through moving floodwater.
People living in areas with evacuation orders should move to designated shelters or safer locations as instructed by authorities.
Residents should also avoid touching fallen electrical wires and report dangerous situations to emergency services.
After the Cyclone
Even after the cyclone crosses the coast, dangerous conditions may continue.
Floodwater, damaged buildings, fallen trees and electrical hazards can create risks for several hours or days.
Residents should return to evacuated areas only after authorities confirm that it is safe.
Avoid entering damaged buildings and do not attempt to repair electrical equipment while standing in water.
Cyclone Arnab Latest Updates: What to Watch Next
The next 24 to 48 hours will be crucial for monitoring Cyclone Arnab.
The main developments to watch include the cyclone’s movement towards the Andhra Pradesh coast, changes in wind speed, the exact landfall location and the distribution of heavy rainfall.
The IMD’s latest forecasts will also be important for understanding the potential impact on Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Nepal.
Authorities may announce additional school closures, transport restrictions, evacuation measures and emergency response arrangements depending on the cyclone’s progress.
Residents should rely on official weather bulletins and local administration announcements for the latest information.
For the most accurate Cyclone Arnab updates, follow the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the relevant state disaster management authorities.
FAQs
What is Cyclone Arnab?
Cyclone Arnab is a very severe cyclonic storm that formed over the Bay of Bengal on October 26, 2026. It is moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast and is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall.
When will Cyclone Arnab make landfall?
Cyclone Arnab is expected to make landfall on October 28, 2026, by the forenoon. The forecast landfall location is between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, along the Andhra Pradesh coast.
What is the wind speed of Cyclone Arnab?
The IMD forecast indicates sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching approximately 140 kmph during landfall.
Which states will be affected by Cyclone Arnab?
Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are expected to experience significant rainfall. Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh may also experience heavy rainfall as the cyclone moves inland. The remnants could potentially influence rainfall in Nepal.
Will Cyclone Arnab affect schools in Odisha?
Yes. Schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in six southern Odisha districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput and Nabarangpur—have been ordered to remain closed on October 28 and 29.
Will Cyclone Arnab affect train services?
Yes. South Coast Railway has announced the cancellation of 53 train services on October 27 and/or October 28. Passengers should check official railway updates before travelling.
Can Cyclone Arnab bring rainfall to northern India?
Yes. The cyclone’s remnants could move towards Uttar Pradesh and Nepal and potentially interact with a western disturbance, increasing the possibility of rainfall in parts of northern India.
Is Cyclone Arnab dangerous?
Yes. A very severe cyclonic storm can produce damaging winds, heavy rainfall, flooding and disruptions to transportation and electricity services. Residents in affected regions should follow official safety instructions.
Conclusion
Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab is approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast and is expected to make landfall on October 28, 2026. The cyclone has already triggered weather alerts, emergency preparedness measures and transport disruptions across parts of eastern India.
While Andhra Pradesh is expected to experience the most direct impact, heavy rainfall could also affect Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh. The cyclone’s remnants may further influence weather conditions across northern India and Nepal.
The situation remains dynamic, and the cyclone’s exact movement and intensity may change as it approaches land.
Residents should remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather and follow the latest updates from the IMD and local authorities.
