Cyclone Threatens Odisha: High alert issued as storm intensifies over Bay of Bengal

Bhubaneswar/Paradip, October 25, 2025 – Odisha is bracing for the severe impact of Cyclone Montha, which is rapidly gaining strength over the Bay of Bengal. State authorities have activated emergency protocols, with the Revenue Minister, Suresh Pujari, warning that up to 15 districts—particularly the southern and coastal regions—face a high risk of devastation.

Current Status and Forecast

As of today, the depression is positioned approximately 1,040 km southeast of Gopalpur and 990 km southeast of Visakhapatnam. Meteorologists project a significant escalation:

• Tomorrow (October 26): Expected to intensify into a deep depression.
• October 27: Expected to transform into a full-fledged cyclone.

While the exact path remains under continuous scrutiny, the primary concern is a potential landfall along the Andhra coast. Despite the uncertainty, Odisha officials are taking no chances and are preparing for every scenario.

Emergency Response and Coastal Warnings

The state administration has mobilized its disaster response machinery, drawing lessons from past cyclone experiences.

• Fishermen Alert: Authorities in Paradip have issued an urgent cyclone alert. The Fisheries Department and Marine Police have used loudspeakers in key areas—including the Nehru Bungalow Fishing Harbour, Atharabanki, Sandhakuda, Nuabazar, and Chaumuhani—to warn coastal residents.
  • Mandatory Evacuation: Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea until October 29 and those currently at sea must return immediately.
• Departments on High Alert: Emergency protocols have been activated across crucial sectors, including the Water Resources, Panchayati Raj, Agriculture, and Energy departments, ensuring a coordinated and immediate response to any crisis.

Government Assures Preparedness

Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari affirmed that the government has taken all necessary precautions. He assured the public that comprehensive arrangements are in place to minimize loss of life and property.

Minister Suresh Pujari: “The government has taken all necessary precautions based on previous cyclone experiences. Authorities will provide cooked food to anyone stranded due to flooding or isolation.”

The government maintains a constant vigil on the cyclone’s trajectory, emphasizing that even if the storm shifts direction, the state machinery will remain fully operational and ready to respond swiftly. Through these coordinated efforts and timely warnings, Odisha aims to ensure the maximum protection of its citizens.