Gopalpur Sea Beach(Odisha): Odisha has stepped up its preparedness in view of Cyclone Arnab, with authorities on high alert across vulnerable southern districts. The state government has assigned eight ministers, including both Deputy Chief Ministers, to oversee cyclone preparedness and emergency response in eight districts. Disaster response teams, fire services and local administrations have been mobilised to minimise risks and ensure public safety.

Cyclone Arnab Moves Towards Andhra Pradesh Coast

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Arnab is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of October 28.

The storm is forecast to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm, with sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph and gusts reaching up to 140 kmph during landfall.

Although the system is expected to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast, its outer bands may bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds to southern Odisha. Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, Ganjam and Gajapati are among the districts being closely monitored.

Eight Ministers Assigned to Eight Districts

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has assigned ministers to oversee preparedness and coordinate with district administrations in eight vulnerable districts.

• Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo — Koraput

• Pravati Parida — Rayagada

• Rabi Narayan Naik — Kandhamal

• Bibhuti Jena — Ganjam

• Krushna Chandra Patra — Nabarangpur

• Nityananda Gond — Malkangiri

• Mukesh Mahaling — Kalahandi

• Suryabanshi Suraj — Gajapati

The ministers will monitor preparedness, relief arrangements and emergency response measures in their respective districts.

ODRAF, NDRF and Fire Services on Alert

The state has mobilised disaster response personnel and equipment to handle possible emergencies. According to the information provided, 60 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams, nine National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and 225 Fire Services teams are being deployed or kept ready.

Seventeen JCB machines have also been kept on standby for emergency operations, including clearing roads and removing debris if required.

Authorities have been directed to keep cyclone shelters and other safe locations ready for residents who may need to be evacuated.

Evacuation and Healthcare Arrangements

Preparations are underway to move around 15,000 people to safer locations if conditions warrant evacuation. More than 80 pregnant women have reportedly already been shifted to maternity centres to ensure timely access to medical care.

Special attention is being given to people living in low-lying areas and vulnerable houses, along with elderly residents, children and people requiring medical assistance.

Schools Closed, Government Staff Leave Cancelled

Schools and Anganwadi centres in vulnerable districts are set to remain closed on notified dates as a precautionary measure. Government officials and employees in critical departments have been instructed to remain available for emergency duties, with leave cancelled as part of preparedness measures.

Gopalpur Coast Under Watch

From Gopalpur Sea Beach, authorities are monitoring the developing weather situation as rough sea conditions and strong winds are expected along the southern Odisha coast.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and residents are urged to follow official IMD bulletins and local administration advisories. People should avoid restricted coastal areas and move to designated shelters if instructed by authorities.

The state government has directed departments to coordinate closely and prioritise public safety as Cyclone Arnab approaches the neighbouring Andhra Pradesh coast.