Cyclone Arnab, which is currently intensifying as a severe deep depression, is anticipated to make landfall along the coasts of north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha. The landfall is projected to occur between 5:00 PM today (September 23) and 5:00 AM tomorrow (September 24), 2026, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) estimating that the storm’s core will cross the coastline before midnight.

The cyclone will particularly impact the area between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur.

States Most Affected

Odisha: The southern coastal districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Khurda, and Malkangiri, are expected to suffer significant effects from the storm. A Red Alert has been issued for extremely heavy rainfall, prompting school closures in various districts.

Andhra Pradesh: Northern coastal regions, such as Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Srikakulam, and Vizianagaram, are under High Alert due to predictions of heavy rain, potential flash floods, and strong winds reaching speeds of up to 75 km/h.

West Bengal: Although the state will not experience a direct impact, its outer bands are already causing heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions. Fishermen have been explicitly warned against going out to sea.

Inland areas of Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand are also on orange alert as the system progresses further inland, posing risks of heavy rain and localized flooding over the next 24 to 48 hours. Emergency response teams, including the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), have been mobilized for evacuations and to address waterlogging issues.

Emergency Helpline Numbers

Residents in high-alert areas should save the following emergency contacts:

• All-India Unified Emergency: Dial 112 (Connects directly to Police, Fire, and Ambulance).
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): 011-1078 or 011-26701700.
• National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): 011-24363260 or 9711077372.

State-Specific Control Rooms

• Odisha State Emergency Operations Centre: 0674-2534177
• Odisha Cyclone-Specific Free Helpline: 1912 or 1800-345-6797
• Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA): 0674-2395398
• Andhra Pradesh State Helpline: 1070 or 1077
• Visakhapatnam (Vizag) Collectorate Control Room: 0891-2590102, 0891-2750089, or 0891-2750090

IMD Cyclone Safety Guidelines

To ensure safety during the impending storm, follow these essential protocols:

Before & During Landfall

• Stay Indoors: Remain inside until official weather reports confirm the storm has passed.
• Disconnect Utilities: Unplug electrical devices and turn off the main gas supply to prevent hazards.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essential medications, non-perishable food, flashlights, spare batteries, and safe drinking water.
• Avoid Fragile Shelters: Keep away from glass windows, tin roofs, and large trees.
• Track Official Updates: Use a battery-operated radio or visit the IMD Official Site for the latest information.

After the Storm Passes

• Watch Out for Open Wires: Avoid walking in waterlogged areas or contacting fallen power lines.
• Boil Your Water: Ensure all drinking water is boiled or purified to eliminate contaminants.
• Avoid Driving: Refrain from driving on flooded roads due to the risk of flash floods and debris.