Cyclone Montha to Hit Andhra Coast—Here’s What You Must Know
Cyclone Montha Approaches East Coast—IMD Issues Red Alert
Cyclone Montha, the first major storm of the 2025 post-monsoon season, is rapidly intensifying over the Bay of Bengal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is expected to make landfall near Kakinada on October 28, affecting parts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry. As the system strengthens, IMD has issued red and orange alerts across 23 districts in Andhra Pradesh. Coastal residents are advised to stay indoors and follow official safety instructions.
What Does Cyclone Montha Mean?
The name “Montha” was contributed by Thailand, one of the 13 countries that help name cyclones in the North Indian Ocean region. In Thai, Montha means “beautiful flower” or “fragrant blossom” Naming cyclones helps improve public awareness and emergency response. It also avoids confusion when multiple storms occur simultaneously.
How Are Cyclones Named in India?
Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean—including the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea—are named by the Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre (RSMC) in New Delhi. This center is operated by IMD under the guidance of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and UN ESCAP NDTV Mathrubhumi English.
Member Countries That Suggest Names:
- India
- Bangladesh
- Maldives
- Myanmar
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Yemen
- Iran
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
Each country submits 13 names, forming a pool of 169 names. When a new cyclone forms, IMD picks the next name from the list.
Cyclone Montha Landfall Location & Timing
Cyclone Montha is moving northwestwards and is expected to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, on the evening of October 28
IMD Alerts:
- Red Alert: 23 districts in Andhra Pradesh
- Orange Alert: Coastal Odisha and parts of Tamil Nadu
- Heavy Rainfall Warning: Puducherry and West Bengal
Wind speeds may reach 90–100 kmph, with gusts up to 110 kmph. Authorities have begun evacuations in low-lying areas and suspended beach activities.
🌧️ Districts on High Alert
Andhra Pradesh:
- East Godavari
- West Godavari
- Krishna
- Guntur
- Visakhapatnam
- Vizianagaram
- Srikakulam
Odisha:
- Ganjam
- Gajapati
- Rayagada
- Koraput
- Malkangiri
Tamil Nadu & Puducherry:
- Chennai
- Cuddalore
- Nagapattinam
- Karaikal
Schools have been closed in several districts, and emergency shelters are being prepared.
Safety Measures & IMD Guidelines
IMD and state disaster management authorities have issued the following safety instructions:
- Avoid coastal travel and fishing activities
- Charge mobile phones and keep emergency kits ready
- Follow evacuation orders if issued
- Stay updated via IMD bulletins and local news
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed teams in vulnerable areas to assist with rescue and relief operations.
🌐 External Links for Official Updates:
- Cyclone Montha Alert – Outlook India
- Cyclone Montha Live Tracker – Hindustan Times
- IMD Cyclone Naming Explained – NDTV
