Cyclone Arnab 2026 is forecast to cross the Andhra Pradesh–Yanam coast near Yanam by the forenoon of October 28, between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam. IMD has issued a cyclone warning for Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha, with damaging winds and heavy rainfall among the concerns. Landfall remains a forecast, not a completed event.
Forecast checked: October 27, 2026. The IMD coastal bulletin used below is valid from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm IST and gives the cyclone’s position at 5:30 am. Later bulletins may revise its track and intensity.
Key Highlights
- Landfall is expected near Yanam on October 28.
- Forecast landfall winds are 115–125 kmph, gusting to 140 kmph.
- Coastal flooding and heavy rain require attention beyond the crossing point.
- Follow district evacuation instructions and restrictions on coastal access.
Cyclone Arnab Landfall Location And Expected Timing
The projected crossing lies along the Andhra Pradesh coast close to Yanam, which belongs to the Union Territory of Puducherry. A reference to Yanam does not place the forecast landfall near Puducherry city.
IMD expects the system to move west-northwestwards until October 27 evening, then turn northwestwards towards the coast. Its coastal weather bulletin places landfall before noon on October 28.
For coastal households, that window should guide preparations without becoming a reason to delay evacuation. The government’s cyclone safety guidance advises residents to follow local evacuation orders and move to designated shelters when instructed.
Road access and shelter arrangements come from the local administration. A forecast map alone cannot establish whether a particular village or neighbourhood must evacuate.
Expected Wind Speed And Coastal Flooding Risk
The wind forecast describes conditions at landfall. Sustained winds and gusts are separate measurements; the higher gust figure should not be presented as a continuous wind speed.
| Forecast Detail | IMD Assessment |
| Maximum sustained winds at landfall | 115–125 kmph |
| Gusts at landfall | Up to 140 kmph |
| Storm surge above astronomical tide | 1–2 metres in vulnerable Andhra Pradesh coastal areas |
| Expected peak surge locations | Near Kakinada and Yanam |
These figures describe forecast hazards, rather than measured damage or water depth at every coastal property. The surge estimate is additional to the predicted astronomical tide.
Preparedness is already under way. DD News reported that Andhra Pradesh had readied 1,763 cyclone shelters and secured 30,043 fishing vessels at harbours. Its report also described restrictions on beach access and planned coastal-road closures. Those arrangements are particularly relevant to anyone considering a last-minute coastal journey.
Affected States And Areas Beyond The Landfall Zone
A coastal crossing and the wider rainfall footprint are different. The National Crisis Management Committee’s review covered Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Puducherry, while also calling for rainfall alerts for eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
The immediate concerns vary by location:
- Andhra Pradesh and Yanam: Coastal winds, flooding and restrictions affecting movement near the sea.
- Southern Odisha: Heavy rainfall, with Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri among the districts highlighted.
- West Bengal: Rainfall is forecast in several districts from October 28–30, extending the period of disruption beyond the expected landfall.
- Inland areas: Follow local rainfall warnings rather than assuming the coastal wind forecast applies across every affected state.
School closures also require a local check. DD News reported closures in affected areas of Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha; parents should use their district administration’s order for the applicable dates.
Latest IMD Warnings And Precautions
IMD’s homepage carries a Red Message cyclone warning for Andhra Pradesh and adjoining southern Odisha. DD News has also flagged coastal rainfall risks in its official update on X.
Prepare around the instructions for your locality:
- Evacuate when directed. Use the shelter or evacuation point identified by officials.
- Keep essential supplies accessible. Pack drinking water, medicines, and food that needs no cooking.
- Avoid coastal sightseeing. Stay away from beaches and exposed waterfronts.
- Remain sheltered during a lull. Wait for official clearance before going outside.
For the next decision, use the IMD district warning page alongside local administrative announcements. Read the bulletin’s issue time before sharing a forecast or changing travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Cyclone Arnab already made landfall?
The October 27 forecast cited here places landfall on October 28 before noon. It does not confirm a completed crossing; subsequent IMD bulletins will establish that.
Does every affected state face winds of 140 kmph?
No. The 140 kmph figure refers to forecast gusts at landfall. Rainfall warnings farther inland do not automatically carry the same wind forecast for those locations.
Are schools closed across Andhra Pradesh and Odisha?
Reported closures concern affected districts and areas. Parents need their district’s current order, because a cyclone warning does not establish one statewide reopening date for schools.
Is it safe to leave shelter when winds become calm?
A temporary lull can occur as the cyclone’s eye passes. Strong winds may return from another direction, so remain sheltered until authorities announce it is safe.
Where can residents check local cyclone warnings?
Use IMD’s district warnings and cyclone bulletins, then follow local administration instructions for evacuation and road restrictions. Check the issue time before relying on forwarded screenshots.
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