Cyclone Arnab Completes Landfall Along Andhra Pradesh Coast with 150 Kmph Gusts

Cyclone Arnab has completed its landfall along the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts, bringing sustained winds of 125 to 135 kmph and gusts reaching 150 kmph, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Satellite imagery from India's INSAT-3DS weather satellite captured the massive storm system, showing its sprawling cloud shield extending across parts of eastern and southern India.

According to official reports, the very severe cyclonic storm crossed the coast between 2 am and 8 am IST on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Its centre moved inland near latitude 16.45°N and longitude 81.9°E, approximately 20 km east-northeast of Narsapur, 40 km southwest of Yanam, and 60 km southwest of Kakinada.

Satellite Observations and Storm Structure

• INSAT-3DS Imagery: Thermal infrared images captured between 9:30 am and 9:57 am IST revealed a broad cloud shield and dense central cloud mass.
• Deep Convection: Bright white clusters indicated high, cold cloud tops associated with powerful thunderstorms.
• Sprawling Rainbands: The storm's circulation drew in moisture, creating extensive cloud bands that stretched across the Bay of Bengal and mainland India.

Practical Implications and Ongoing Hazards

Although the landfall process has concluded, authorities note that hazards persist as the system moves further inland:

• Heavy Rainfall: Sprawling rainbands continue to bring intense rainfall to parts of Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring areas.
• Flood Risks: Localised waterlogging and flash floods remain a threat in affected districts.
• Infrastructure Threats: Strong gusts can uproot trees, damage power lines, and disrupt local transport networks.

Verification and Safety Guidance

Residents in affected regions are advised to monitor official updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and local disaster management authorities. Verification of storm tracks, warnings, and weather advisories can be conducted directly through official meteorological portals rather than unverified social media claims.