Cyclone Montha intensifies; IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu
What's the story
The developing cyclonic system, "Montha," over the southeast Bay of Bengal is moving toward the Andhra Pradesh coast, with early forecasts suggesting that north Tamil Nadu may escape its major brunt. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects it to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 27 and into a severe cyclonic storm by October 28. It is expected to cross the coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, with wind speeds of 90-100km/h and gusts up to 110km/h.
Rainfall forecast
Two scenarios for rainfall in Tamil Nadu
Weather models predict two scenarios for rainfall in Tamil Nadu. If the system moves directly toward Andhra from the open seas, north Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, will only receive light to moderate rainfall. However, if it comes closer to the coast before curving away, Chennai and neighboring districts could witness heavy rainfall as the system's outer rain bands brush past.
Safety measures
Fishermen warned, national crisis management meet convened
The IMD has warned fishermen along the north Tamil Nadu and Andhra coasts against venturing into the sea from October 25-28 due to rough conditions. Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan chaired a National Crisis Management Committee meeting to review preparedness for Cyclone Montha. Chief Secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry, and Odisha briefed on measures taken to protect populations in the cyclonic storm's path.
Disaster response
NDRF, armed forces on standby
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has kept teams ready for deployment by October 26. Rescue and relief teams from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard are also on standby. The Indian Coast Guard has already shepherded over 900 ships to safety and alerted others to return to shore.