In anticipation of Severe Cyclonic Storm Montha making landfall, Andhra Pradesh has activated emergency protocols. Key coastal districts are now under a night curfew and a strict ban on vehicular movement to mitigate potential risks. The meteorological department forecasts powerful winds reaching up to 110 kmph and torrential rain across the state’s coastline, as well as in neighboring Odisha and northern Tamil Nadu. The cyclone is currently traversing the west-central Bay of Bengal at a moderate pace.
The landfall process began Tuesday evening and is expected to continue for a few more hours, according to the IMD. The storm’s proximity to Machilipatnam has prompted the Andhra Pradesh government to enforce a ban on all vehicle movement, excluding emergency responders, in seven vulnerable districts. These include Krishna, Eluru, East Godavari, West Godavari, Kakinada, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, and parts of the Alluri Sitarama Raju district. The restrictions are in place overnight, emphasizing the need for public safety.
Beyond the travel ban, a night curfew has been imposed in the affected areas. Only essential services like medical aid are permitted to operate. Residents are urged by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations to prioritize safety, stay indoors, and remain vigilant for official updates. Storm Montha is predicted to make landfall near Kakinada by late Tuesday night. Preparations include the deployment of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams across several Indian states. Air and rail travel have seen considerable disruption, with multiple flights and trains canceled to ensure passenger safety.