Cyclone Montha Approaches: IMD Issues Alerts Across India as Rain, Storms, and Cold Grip the Nation

India is bracing for a dramatic shift in weather as Cyclone Montha, forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal, intensifies into a severe cyclonic storm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple alerts across the country, warning of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms in several states.

Cyclone Montha: A Brewing Storm in the Bay of Bengal

A low-pressure system over the southeast Bay of Bengal has now intensified into Cyclone Montha, expected to make landfall near Andhra Pradesh’s coast by October 28. The cyclone is projected to bring winds up to 110 km/h and torrential rain to coastal regions.

• States on high alert: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Chhattisgarh.
• Evacuations underway: Vulnerable coastal villages in Andhra Pradesh are being evacuated.
• School closures: Educational institutions in affected districts will remain shut from October 27–31.

Arabian Sea Depression: Gujarat Faces Heavy Rainfall

While the east coast braces for Cyclone Montha, a separate depression in the Arabian Sea is causing concern in western India. The IMD has issued an orange alert for Saurashtra and Kutch districts in Gujarat, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall.

• Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea until conditions stabilize.
• Coastal areas may experience wind speeds of 35–45 km/h, especially around the Gulf of Mannar and the Comorin region.

Delhi’s Air Quality and Rain Prospects

Delhi continues to struggle with severe air pollution, but relief may be on the horizon. A fresh Western Disturbance is expected to bring light rain to the capital within the next 24–48 hours.

• Temperature range: Max 30–32°C, Min 16–18°C.
• Wind pattern: Northwest in the morning, shifting to northeast later in the day.

Widespread Alerts Across Southern and Eastern India

The IMD has issued orange and red alerts for multiple districts across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal. These regions are expected to face:

• Heavy to very heavy rainfall
• Thunderstorms and lightning
• Strong winds up to 45 km/h

In Chennai and surrounding districts, cloudy skies and intermittent rain are forecasted. Lightning strikes are also a possibility, prompting safety advisories.

Fishermen Advisory: Stay Ashore

Given the turbulent sea conditions, the IMD has strongly advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea until October 27. Coastal waters are expected to be rough, especially near Tamil Nadu, southern Andhra Pradesh, and the Bay of Bengal.

Western Himalayan Region: Snowfall and Rain Ahead

A fresh Western Disturbance is set to impact the Western Himalayas starting October 27, bringing:

• Rain and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir.
• Drop in minimum temperatures due to cloud cover and precipitation.
• Foggy mornings and increased chill in northern plains including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

North India: Cloudy Skies and Seasonal Chill

While no major rainfall is expected in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan, the IMD forecasts:

• Cloudy skies with occasional light showers.
• Morning fog and a noticeable drop in temperatures over the next few days.
• No major weather activity expected until the end of October.

Jharkhand and Bihar: Rain on the Horizon

Jharkhand is likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next three to four days, while Bihar may see light showers between October 26–31. These conditions are expected to contribute to a cooler climate across the region.

Disaster Preparedness in Full Swing

Governments across affected states have activated disaster response protocols. Odisha, in particular, has mobilized its emergency teams and is preparing for potential landfall impacts.

• Cyclone shelters are being readied.
• Rescue teams are on standby.
• Public advisories are being issued regularly.

Summary of IMD Alerts (as of October 27)

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