Amaravati, 27 October (H.S.): Cyclone Arnab is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, as a very severe cyclonic storm, with wind speeds of 125-135 kmph and gusts reaching 150 kmph, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Tuesday.

IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty said the cyclone was located around 380 km south of Gopalpur and was expected to move west-northwestwards until Tuesday evening before changing direction towards the northwest.

The system was likely to maintain its intensity while crossing the coast, with maximum sustained wind speeds of around 125 kmph, Mohanty said.

Meanwhile, the IMD forecast widespread rainfall across Odisha on Tuesday, with heavy to very heavy rain at some places. Similar conditions were expected on Wednesday, with extremely heavy rainfall likely at isolated locations.

Mohanty also warned of intense thunderstorms and lightning in parts of Odisha and advised people to take necessary precautions.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar