Cyclone Montha is rapidly approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast and is expected to make landfall near Kakinada by this evening or night, according to the Meteorological Department. A red alert has been issued for 17 districts, as heavy rains have already begun across several coastal areas.

Currently, the cyclone is located about 310 km from Kakinada and 230 km from Machilipatnam, moving at a speed of 17 km/h. Officials predict that Montha will intensify into a severe cyclone within a few hours, with its impact expected to continue for up to 18 hours after landfall.

Strong winds blowing at 90 to 110 km/h are lashing coastal regions. Continuous rainfall is being reported in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Konaseema, and Nellore districts. Over 95 locations across the state have recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall. The Disaster Management Department has urged people to stay indoors and remain alert.

In Kakinada district, the cyclone’s impact is clearly visible. Huge waves are pounding the Uppada coastline, causing severe damage to the Uppada-Kakinada beach road. Rocks and debris have washed onto the road due to strong tidal waves. Houses in coastal villages have been damaged, forcing authorities to shift residents to relief camps.

In Konaseema district, heavy rains accompanied by gusty winds have disrupted power supply in several areas since midnight. Officials have begun evacuating people from low-lying and seaside villages to safer locations as a precautionary measure.