Will Cyclone ‘Montha’ Hit the Coast? What IMD Says

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone alert as a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into Cyclone ‘Montha’ by October 27. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and parts of Andhra Pradesh are likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next few days.

Weather Watch: Cyclone ‘Montha’ Likely to Form Over Bay of Bengal, Tamil Nadu Braces for Rain

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded an alert for southern India as a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal shows signs of intensifying into a cyclonic storm named ‘Montha’. The system, currently stationary, is expected to move west-northwestward and evolve into a depression by October 25, a deep depression by October 26, and a full-fledged cyclone by the morning of October 27.

With the Northeast monsoon season already active, the developing system is projected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Rayalaseema, and coastal Andhra Pradesh. The IMD has urged state authorities to prepare for potential flooding and waterlogging, especially in low-lying areas.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin are closely monitoring the situation, directing Greater Chennai Corporation officials to implement precautionary measures to ensure public safety.

Key Developments & Alerts

- Cyclone Formation Timeline: The low-pressure system is expected to intensify into Cyclone ‘Montha’ by October 27 over the southwest and west-central Bay of Bengal.

- Rainfall Forecast: Heavy showers are likely in districts such as Cuddalore, Puducherry, Villupuram, and Chengalpattu from October 25 onward.

- Government Preparedness: Tamil Nadu’s leadership has activated emergency protocols, including flood mitigation efforts and public advisories.

- Monsoon Activity: The active Northeast monsoon is contributing to the system’s development and widespread rainfall.

- Public Advisory: Residents are advised to stay updated via official IMD bulletins and avoid venturing into coastal or flood-prone areas during the alert period.

This weather system marks the first major cyclonic development of the post-monsoon season in the Bay of Bengal. As climate patterns grow increasingly unpredictable, timely alerts and coordinated disaster management remain critical to minimizing impact.

Sources: Financial Express, Mathrubhumi, Moneycontrol, News18