Cyclone Arnab Makes Landfall Along Andhra Pradesh Coast

On October 28, 2026, Cyclone Arnab, the first named storm of the North Indian Ocean’s 2026 season, reached the coast of Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Emerging in the Bay of Bengal on October 25, the storm defied typical seasonal patterns by forming much later than the usual April or May timeframe.

Storm Impact and Intensity

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the storm struck with sustained winds of approximately 130 kilometers per hour at the time of landfall. This intensity classifies it as a "very severe cyclonic storm," comparable to a Category 1 hurricane.

• Location: Landfall occurred between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam.
• Infrastructure: Significant reports indicate uprooted trees, power grid disruptions, and damaged transport networks.
• Agriculture and Livelihoods: Extensive inundation of farmland and coastal fishing communities has been reported.
• Emergency Response: Local authorities initiated large-scale evacuations, moving tens of thousands of residents to safety ahead of the impact.

Climate Context

Meteorologists are observing this storm within the context of an active El Niño event. Research suggests that El Niño, characterized by warmer Pacific water temperatures, often correlates with reduced tropical cyclone frequency and intensity in the Bay of Bengal. Despite this broader trend, Cyclone Arnab produced significant localized destruction. For official updates and specific impact data, refer to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) bulletins.