Cyclone Arnab weakens as heavy rains batter Odisha and Andhra Pradesh

UPDATE - follow-up to Cyclone Arnab to weaken into depression on October 29, says IMD | LIVE updates: The weather system formerly known as Cyclone Arnab has dropped in intensity to a deep depression and is expected to become a regular depression on Thursday morning before turning into a low pressure area by evening, according to the India Meteorological Department.

Odisha and Andhra Pradesh

Seventeen districts in southern Odisha are facing heavy downpours, as stated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. Across the border in Andhra Pradesh, five people lost their lives due to the severe weather. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu identified the victims as Amrapinni Devmud, Kolamuru Madhavi, Chukkala Kishore, Bhagyalakshmi, and Kollu Venkayamma, and announced financial aid for families, farmers, fishermen, and local businesses. Mr. Naidu also reached out to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to request central help for repairing damaged crops, homes, roads, and power lines.

Neighbouring States

Meanwhile, the weather is beginning to improve in Kerala with rains dropping and temperatures climbing. However, Telangana is still at risk, with twelve districts expected to see thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds on Thursday.

Context

Tropical storms frequently bring heavy rainfall and infrastructure damage to India's eastern coast during this season, prompting coordinated relief efforts between state and central authorities. The India Meteorological Department tracks these systems closely to provide timely warnings and limit harm to coastal communities.