Bhubaneswar, 28 October (H.S.): Cyclone Arnab has crossed the coast and moved completely over land, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting an increase in rainfall and wind speed across Odisha, particularly in the southern districts.

IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty said rainfall and wind activity were likely to intensify in the state following the cyclone’s landfall. Widespread rainfall activity was recorded in several areas during the past 24 hours.

The IMD has issued a red warning for six districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri and Nabarangpur—forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall.

Wind speeds of 60–70 kmph, gusting to 80–85 kmph, are also likely in some districts, Mohanty said.

Several coastal districts of northern Odisha may also experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, according to the forecast.

The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until October 29 in view of the prevailing weather conditions.

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

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda