A new cyclonic storm named Cyclone Montha has developed over the Arabian Sea and is predicted to move toward the Andhra Pradesh coast by October 28, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather system, which originated as a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm in the coming days. Neighboring states like Odisha and Tamil Nadu are also on alert as the storm progresses.
How Cyclone Montha Got Its Name
Cyclone names in the North Indian Ocean region are chosen from a pre-approved list of names submitted by 13 member countries of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
The name “Montha” was proposed by Thailand, one of the member nations that contribute to the naming system. In the Thai language, Montha translates to “fragrant flower” or “beautiful flower.”
How Cyclone Naming Works
Cyclones in this region are officially named by the Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre (RSMC) in New Delhi, managed by the IMD.
Countries that take part in the naming process include:
Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Yemen, Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Each country submits 13 names, forming a total pool of 169 names. When a new cyclone develops, the IMD selects the next available name from this list.
Expected Landfall and Impact Areas
According to IMD forecasts, Cyclone Montha is moving northwestward toward the Andhra Pradesh coastline and is expected to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, on October 28.
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Red and orange alerts have been issued across 23 districts in Andhra Pradesh.
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Odisha is expected to experience heavy rainfall on October 28 and 29, particularly in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri.
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Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry have also been placed on high alert for potential heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Precautionary Measures and Warnings
The IMD has urged fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea, as rough conditions and strong winds are expected over the Bay of Bengal and Andhra coast. Disaster response teams are on standby, and coastal residents have been advised to take safety precautions and stay updated through official alerts.
As the storm approaches, Cyclone Montha serves as another reminder of the importance of preparedness and timely response in minimizing the impact of natural disasters.