Cyclone Arnab: Red Alert for Andhra Pradesh & Odisha Coast

Cyclonic Storm Arnab: Red Alert Issued for Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Coasts

Last updated: 26 October 2026, based on IMD’s morning bulletins

A powerful storm is building over the Bay of Bengal, and India’s eastern coast is on high alert. Cyclone Arnab (pronounced “Ornab”) formed on 26 October 2026 and is the first cyclonic storm of the year in the North Indian Ocean. Here is what we know so far, in simple words.

Where Is Arnab Right Now?

In the early morning of 26 October, the storm was about 610 km southeast of Gopalpur (Odisha) and 650 km east-southeast of Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh). It is moving west to west-northwest at roughly 13 km per hour. That is slow, which gives the storm more time to gather strength over warm sea water.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Message cyclone warning for the Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts. A Red Message means the coast should get ready for impact soon.

How Strong Will It Become?

IMD expects Arnab to become a severe cyclonic storm by the evening of 26 October, and a very severe cyclonic storm on 27 October. The storm is likely to be at its strongest on 27 October. Wind speeds will rise through the day. At landfall, sustained winds could reach 115–125 km per hour, with gusts up to 140 km per hour.

Where Will It Hit Land?

The forecast says Arnab will cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by the forenoon of 28 October. The exact spot can still shift, because a cyclone’s path can change. Coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha should expect:

Heavy to very heavy rain Strong, damaging winds Very rough seas and higher tides Flooding in low-lying areas Fallen trees, damaged power lines and electricity cuts

Some weather experts also say that after landfall, the storm’s remains may mix with a western disturbance and bring heavy rain to parts of northern India and Nepal.

What Are Authorities Doing?

Officials have started preparing for the worst:

Schools and colleges: Educational institutions in high-risk districts of southern Odisha and Andhra Pradesh will stay closed on 28 and 29 October. Rescue teams: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been placed in coastal areas. Sea ban: All marine activity is banned. Fishermen who are already at sea are being called back to shore. How to Stay Safe

If you live in or near the affected coast, please follow these steps:

Stay indoors once the winds begin, and keep away from windows. Charge your phone and power bank now, before electricity is cut. Store drinking water, dry food and medicines for at least three days. Keep documents in a waterproof bag. Do not go to beaches, rivers or broken electric poles. Move to a relief shelter immediately if the local administration asks you to. Trust only official sources, such as IMD and your district administration, not social media forwards.

For emergencies, call 112. In Andhra Pradesh, the State Emergency Operations Centre can be reached at 1070 or 1800-425-0101.

The Bottom Line

Cyclone Arnab is still developing, so forecasts may change in the next 48 hours. The safest approach is to prepare early, not wait for the last moment. Check the official IMD website (mausam.imd.gov.in) for live updates, and share verified information with your family and neighbours.