Chennai, 28 October (H.S.) : The severe cyclonic storm 'Montha' is rapidly advancing toward the Andhra Pradesh coast, centered approximately 160 km from Machilipatnam and 240 km from Kakinada as of the latest update from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The cyclone is moving at a speed of 12 kmph.

Forecasters predict that Cyclone Montha is likely to make landfall, crossing the Andhra coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, specifically around Kakinada, sometime this evening or tonight (October 28). At the time of crossing, the storm is expected to have a maximum sustained wind speed of 90-100 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching 110 kmph.

In anticipation of the storm's impact, the IMD has issued warnings for neighboring states. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is specifically expected at isolated places in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district.

Furthermore, isolated areas in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Theni, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli (Ghat areas), and Kanniyakumari may also receive heavy rainfall today.

Authorities have cautioned that squally winds and rough sea conditions are highly probable along the coasts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha over the next two days, urging necessary precautions from residents and maritime communities.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary