Bhubaneswar, Oct 28: Odisha remains on high alert after Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab completed its landfall near the Yanam coast of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday morning. With heavy to very heavy rainfall expected across parts of southern and western Odisha, the state government has intensified preparedness measures, evacuating around 28,000 people across eight districts.
According to Odisha Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, the landfall process began at around 2 AM and continued until approximately 8 AM. The weather system is now moving inland and is expected to weaken gradually, although its associated rainfall could pose significant challenges for vulnerable areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, as cited in the briefing, indicated that the system could reach Malkangiri district by Wednesday evening or late at night.
Ganjam, Gajapati Among Districts Affected by Heavy Rain
Heavy rainfall has been reported in several parts of southern Odisha, with Ganjam district witnessing particularly intense showers in areas closer to Andhra Pradesh, including Gopalpur and Chikiti.
Gajapati district has also experienced heavy rainfall, while parts of Rayagada received significant precipitation overnight. At the time of the SRC’s briefing, Malkangiri and Koraput were not reporting rainfall.
The rainfall figures for the 24-hour period ending at 8:30 AM on Wednesday indicate the intensity of the downpour in several locations.
Rainfall Recorded Across Odisha
Location
Rainfall
Mohana
182 mm
Ganjam block
161 mm
Chhatrapur
154 mm
Paralakhemundi
140 mm
Digapahandi
139 mm
Gumma
135 mm
Gosani
128 mm
Rayagada
106 mm
Kashinagar
105 mm
The state’s average rainfall during the reported period was approximately 23 mm.
Authorities are monitoring ground conditions as the weather system moves inland and rainfall spreads to additional areas.
28,000 People Shifted to Safety
The state government has stepped up evacuation and relief operations in vulnerable locations. Around 28,000 people have been moved to safer places across eight districts against a planned evacuation target of approximately 48,000.
Officials also reported that around 2,222 pregnant women had been shifted to safety as a precaution.
The evacuated residents are staying in 324 shelters, where cooked meals are being provided. District Collectors are monitoring the situation, while Odisha Fire Services, the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed to respond to emergencies.
The authorities are prioritising the safety of residents in areas vulnerable to flooding, heavy rainfall and other cyclone-related hazards.
Wind Speeds Expected to Weaken as Cyclone Moves Inland
As the cyclone moves farther inland, it is expected to lose strength and weaken into a depression, according to the forecast cited by the state administration.
Wind speeds are expected to gradually decline, potentially reaching around 70–75 kmph as the system approaches Malkangiri. Despite the expected weakening, heavy rainfall remains a major concern for southern Odisha.
Officials have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious and follow instructions issued by local administrations.
Emergency Teams Respond to Fallen Trees and Road Blockages
The state administration reported that minor incidents, including fallen trees and blocked roads, had been addressed promptly by deployed ODRAF and Fire Services personnel.
Gajapati experienced the initial impact because of its proximity to the landfall area. Authorities are continuing to monitor rainfall patterns, road access and local conditions as the system progresses inland.
The government has maintained heightened preparedness, with emergency teams ready to respond to further disruptions.
Government Keeps 24-Hour Vigil
SRC Rajesh Prabhakar Patil said the administration was prepared to manage heavy rainfall and ensure the safety of evacuated residents.
He also indicated that assessments of crop damage and other losses would be carried out after conditions permit. Officials will continue monitoring the situation closely over the next 24 hours.
For now, the immediate priorities remain protecting lives, providing shelter and food to displaced residents, and responding quickly to weather-related emergencies.
With Cyclone Arnab’s landfall completed, the focus has shifted to the rainfall threat across southern and western Odisha. Authorities remain on alert as the system weakens, while residents in vulnerable areas are being urged to cooperate with evacuation and safety instructions.
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