Arnab makes landfall in Andhra Pradesh with 150 km/h winds

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the landfall process commenced at 1:20 AM on Wednesday (October 28) near Yanam, close to Kakinada. The core system crossed the coastline between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, just south of Yanam.

At the time of landfall, sustained wind speeds were recorded between 125 and 135 km/h, with peak wind gusts reaching up to 150 km/h. Meteorologists noted that the complete landfall process would require approximately four hours.

Following landfall, intensity increased across Andhra Pradesh, prompting high alerts across affected coastal districts. Heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by severe squalls hit parts of Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and southern Odisha, leading to widespread power grid trips and tree uprootings.

Along the national highway near Yanam, numerous uprooted trees blocked primary transit routes, prompting emergency response teams to clear the debris.

Flight operations at three major airports in Andhra Pradesh were suspended with multiple flights canceled, alongside widespread cancellations across regional railway lines.