Mass Evacuations Ordered in Southwestern Andhra Pradesh as Cyclone Arnab Approaches

Andhra Pradesh authorities have started relocating people from the low‑lying coastal areas as Cyclone Arnab intensifies and is expected to hit the coast on Wednesday, the Indian Meteorological Department reports. This proactive evacuation seeks to protect lives before what may turn into one of the season’s harshest storms.

The meteorological agency has labeled Arnab a very severe cyclonic storm, forecasting sustained winds of over 120 km/h as it moves toward the Bay of Bengal. Satellite pictures reveal the cyclone becoming more organized, and experts predict it will make landfall on the state’s southwestern shoreline within 48 hours, triggering the present precautionary actions.

The coast of Andhra Pradesh is historically prone to tropical cyclones, particularly in the post‑monsoon period when sea temperatures peak. Earlier systems like Cyclone Thane in 2011 and Cyclone Nivar in 2020 produced widespread flooding and damaged infrastructure in this area, highlighting the need for early preparedness.

Officials have ordered roughly 200,000 residents of vulnerable villages and towns to evacuate ahead of potential storm surge and flash flooding. Makeshift shelters established in schools, community halls and open fields are equipped with food, water and medical supplies. The effort is being coordinated by district disaster‑management cells, the National Disaster Response Force and the armed forces, which stand ready to support logistics and rescue operations if required.

Specialists caution that the intense rain brought by Arnab may spark landslides in the hilly interior and flood agricultural lands already stressed by the monsoon. Anticipated power cuts, blocked roads and interrupted rail services could further strain supply chains and hamper emergency response.

Authorities are keeping a close eye on the cyclone’s path and have advised citizens to stay alert, maintain emergency provisions and obey directions from local officials. As Arnab approaches, more bulletins are expected from the meteorological department, and the state government has indicated that additional evacuation directives may follow if the danger intensifies.