Cyclonic storm ‘Montha’ intensifies into severe cyclonic storm, unlikely to hit Bangladesh
'Montha' is expected to hit the Indian coast near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, tonight as a severe cyclonic storm.
The cyclonic storm "Montha" over the west central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal has moved further north-northwestwards and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the west central Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas.
It is likely to move north-northwestwards further and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast of India around this evening or tonight (28 October), said a met office bulletin.
It was centred at 6am about 1290km southwest of Chattogram Port, 1250km southwest of Cox's Bazar Port, 1140km southwest of Mongla Port and 1155km southwest of Payra Port.
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Maximum sustained wind speed within 64km of the severe cyclone centre is about 90kmph, rising to 110kmph in gusts/squalls.
The sea will remain high near the severe cyclone centre, said the met office.
The maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted distant warning signal No 2.
All fishing boats and trawlers in the north Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea.
Cyclone "Montha" is expected to hit the coast near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, tonight as a severe cyclonic storm.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for 16 districts in Andhra Pradesh, forecasting winds reaching 110kmph along with heavy rainfall, reports The Hindu.
Thousands of residents have been evacuated, and Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has directed authorities to ensure preparations aimed at preventing any casualties.
