Cyclone Montha 2025: India’s East Coast Braces for a Powerful Storm
A New Threat from the Bay of Bengal
The calm after the monsoon has been broken once again — this time by Cyclone Montha, a severe storm forming over the Bay of Bengal.
Named by Thailand, “Montha” translates to beautiful flower — but the storm it represents is anything but gentle.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Montha began as a deep depression late in October 2025 and has since intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. The system is now moving north-northwest toward India’s eastern coastline.
📍 Cyclone Montha Path and Landfall Prediction
As per IMD forecasts, Cyclone Montha is expected to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, likely near Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh).
The anticipated time of landfall is the evening or night of October 28, 2025.
Forecast summary:
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Current position: Central Bay of Bengal
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Wind speeds: 90–100 km/h (gusts up to 110 km/h)
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Direction: North-northwest
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Expected landfall: Andhra Pradesh coast, evening/night of Oct 28
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Post-landfall movement: Likely to weaken into a depression over southern Odisha
☔ Areas on High Alert
⚠️ Andhra Pradesh
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Coastal districts like Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, Konaseema, East & West Godavari, Krishna are under red alert.
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Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall (up to 21 cm) predicted between Oct 27 – 29.
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Schools and colleges across multiple districts have been closed as a precaution.
⚠️ Odisha
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Districts such as Malkangiri, Koraput, Gajapati, and Rayagada are on high-vulnerability watch.
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State government has activated disaster response teams and opened relief shelters.
⚠️ Neighbouring States
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Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and West Bengal may experience heavy rains, thunderstorms, and gusty winds due to Montha’s outer bands.
🌀 Government & IMD Response
The IMD, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and state authorities have issued multiple advisories to coastal residents.
Key actions:
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Evacuation orders in vulnerable coastal villages of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.
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Fishermen advised not to venture into the sea until further notice.
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Relief camps and cyclone shelters have been readied with food, water, and medical support.
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24-hour helplines activated for emergency response.
Odisha’s Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) confirmed that eight coastal districts are under “red zone” monitoring. Andhra’s Chief Minister has directed officials to ensure zero casualties through early evacuation and real-time communication.
🌧️ What to Expect: Impacts of Cyclone Montha
💨 1. Wind Damage
Sustained winds up to 100 km/h can cause:
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Damage to thatched houses and weak structures
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Uprooting of trees and power lines
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Coastal flooding and storm surge in low-lying areas
🌧️ 2. Heavy Rainfall & Flooding
Localized flooding is expected across east-coast districts, especially in agricultural areas. IMD warns of “isolated extremely heavy rainfall” pockets in Andhra’s Godavari region.
🌊 3. Rough Seas
Sea conditions will remain “rough to very rough”, making maritime operations unsafe. Fishermen and coastal communities should stay alert for tidal surges of 1–2 meters above the normal level.
📢 Public Safety Tips (IMD & NDRF Guidelines)
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Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during strong winds.
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Keep emergency kits ready — flashlight, battery radio, medicines, dry food, and drinking water.
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Unplug electrical devices during thunderstorms or heavy rain.
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Charge phones and power banks in advance for communication.
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Follow official alerts from IMD, state disaster management, and local authorities — avoid rumours or social-media misinformation.
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Help neighbours and elderly residents who may need assistance evacuating.
🌐 How Cyclones Get Their Names
Cyclone Montha’s name was given by Thailand and means beautiful flower.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) maintains a rotating list of cyclone names suggested by 13 member countries in the region.
Once a name is used, it is retired if the storm causes significant impact — meaning “Montha” may go down in history depending on the final damage assessment.
🌾 Agricultural & Economic Impact
The storm’s timing — post-monsoon harvest season — has raised concerns for paddy, sugarcane, and coastal aquaculture farmers.
High winds and saline water intrusion can damage crops, infrastructure, and fisheries.
The Andhra Pradesh government has assured that immediate compensation will be provided for crop losses once assessments are completed.
🛰️ Satellite and Tracking Updates
Satellite imagery shows a well-defined eye structure forming, indicating strengthening.
Real-time tracking is available via:
Bookmark these pages for accurate and official data.
🌏 Wider Climate Context
Cyclone Montha is another reminder of climate-driven volatility in the Indian Ocean region.
Scientists note that warmer sea surface temperatures and changing wind patterns are making cyclones more intense, though not necessarily more frequent.
Rising coastal populations and urban expansion mean every storm now carries higher risk to life and property.
💬 Final Word: Stay Safe, Stay Informed
Cyclone Montha is not just another weather event — it’s a test of preparedness and community resilience.
While authorities are working tirelessly, individual awareness and caution remain the strongest defense.
👉 Check official IMD bulletins regularly.
👉 Avoid sharing unverified news on social media.
👉 Look out for each other — safety begins at home and in your neighbourhood.
As the storm approaches, let’s remember that preparedness today prevents tragedy tomorrow.
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