Cyclone Alert: Odisha Shuts Schools in Five Districts as Severe Storm Approaches Andhra Pradesh Coast
Authorities in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have intensified precautionary measures as a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal is forecast to strengthen into a very severe cyclonic storm and make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, 2026.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the storm could cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, bringing sustained winds of 115–125 kmph and gusts reaching 140 kmph. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is also expected across parts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, prompting preparations for evacuations and emergency response.
Schools to remain closed in five Odisha districts
The Odisha government has ordered schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri to remain closed on October 28 and 29. These districts, located in southern Odisha near the Andhra Pradesh border, are expected to face significant rainfall.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed officials to prioritise public safety, evacuate residents from vulnerable locations and ensure emergency services are ready. The state has reiterated its objective of preventing casualties and minimising damage.
Government officials have been instructed to remain at their headquarters, while leave for district collectors and other key personnel has been cancelled. Authorities have deployed approximately 60 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force teams and 17 National Disaster Response Force teams, with 225 Fire Services teams placed on high alert.
The administration has also prepared cyclone shelters and identified temporary accommodation facilities for residents who may need to be moved to safer locations.
Heavy rainfall warning for Odisha
The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across Odisha from October 27 to 29. A red warning has been issued for Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri, where isolated locations could receive extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 centimetres.
Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 60–70 kmph are also likely. Authorities have been directed to monitor vulnerable areas, prepare evacuation arrangements and ensure essential services remain operational during the storm.
Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to follow official instructions and move to safer locations if evacuation orders are issued.
Andhra Pradesh steps up preparedness
Andhra Pradesh is also preparing for the approaching storm, with coastal districts expected to experience heavy rainfall between October 26 and 29. Officials are monitoring the weather system and coordinating emergency arrangements to protect residents and minimise damage.
Fishermen have been advised to remain ashore until October 29. Authorities are tracking fishing boats and have established control rooms to monitor developments. The state administration has also instructed officials to alert residents in vulnerable and low-lying areas.
The cyclone’s projected path and intensity remain subject to weather developments, and authorities are continuing to monitor updates from the IMD. Residents along the eastern coast are advised to follow official weather bulletins and local safety instructions as the system approaches.