Southwestern Andhra Pradesh Initiates Large‑Scale Evacuations Ahead of Cyclone Arnab

Andhra Pradesh authorities have started relocating people from the vulnerable low‑lying coastal zones 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 most serious storms of the season.

The meteorological agency rates Arnab as 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 specialists expect it to make landfall on the southwestern stretch of the state within 48 hours, driving the present precautionary actions.

The coast of Andhra Pradesh has long been 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 severe infrastructure harm in the area, highlighting why early measures are crucial.

Officials have ordered roughly 200,000 residents of the most vulnerable villages and towns to be moved away from potential storm surge and flash flooding. Makeshift shelters erected in schools, community halls and open fields are provisioned 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, each ready to support logistics and rescue operations as required.

Specialists caution that the intense rain linked to 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 disrupt supply chains and emergency response.

Authorities are keeping a close eye on the cyclone’s path and have appealed to the public to stay alert, maintain emergency provisions and obey local directives. As Arnab approaches, the meteorological department is expected to issue further bulletins, and the state government has indicated that more evacuation orders may follow if the danger intensifies.