Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan Orders Evacuation Ahead of Cyclone Arnab

Evacuation Orders

Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan ordered district officials to finish moving people out of coastal and low-lying areas before evening as Cyclone Arnab approaches. The administration plans to shift more than 15,000 residents from 92 vulnerable areas, which include 50 coastal villages. Priority for relocation is given to people living in thatched houses and weak buildings near the coast.

Storm Forecast

The severe cyclonic storm is predicted to cross the coast near Yanam by Wednesday afternoon. Forecasts warn of wind speeds reaching 115 to 125 kmph, with powerful gusts up to 140 kmph. The region also faces heavy rainfall, flash floods, and a possible storm surge of one to two metres.

Relief and Safety Measures

Officials must ensure adequate food, clean water, and medicines at relief centres, with special care for senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities. The Energy Department is deploying teams to restore power quickly, giving top priority to hospitals, water supply schemes, and shelters. Authorities are also monitoring the Yeleru reservoir and nearby canals round the clock while keeping sandbags ready near weak embankments.

Context

Coastal regions in India frequently face severe cyclones during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, requiring swift administrative action and mass evacuations to protect vulnerable populations. Advanced weather tracking and coordinated disaster response efforts help local authorities minimize casualties during such high-intensity storms.