Cyclone Arnab 2026: Heavy rains with 1–2 metre storm surge could flood Andhra Pradesh coast

Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab is expected to bring heavy rainfall, powerful winds and a storm-surge threat to coastal Andhra Pradesh as it approaches the Indian coastline. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that low-lying coastal areas could face flooding as seawater rises above normal tide levels.

The storm is forecast to produce sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph. Residents in vulnerable coastal areas have been advised to follow official weather updates and safety instructions.

Cyclone Arnab arrived a day before its prediction! 

According to the IMD forecast available on October 27, Cyclone Arnab was expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast near Yanam, between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, by the forenoon of October 28.

The storm's movement and intensity will determine the extent of rainfall, wind damage and coastal flooding. Strong winds could damage trees, power lines, temporary structures and vulnerable buildings.

Cyclone Arnab 2026: What is a surge storm?

A storm surge is an abnormal rise in seawater caused mainly by strong cyclone winds pushing water towards the coast. Low atmospheric pressure associated with a cyclone can also contribute to the rise.

The IMD warned of a storm surge of around 1–1.5 metres above the astronomical tide in low-lying coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh. The additional rise in sea level could push seawater inland, particularly where the land is flat and close to the coast.

Cyclone Arnab 2026: Huge impact near coastal areas in Andra Pradesh 

Storm surges become more dangerous when they coincide with high tides. Seawater can travel inland, inundate low-lying settlements and damage roads, agricultural land and coastal infrastructure.

Heavy rainfall could worsen the situation by overwhelming drainage systems and increasing the risk of waterlogging and localised flooding. Rain bands associated with the cyclone may also bring intense downpours beyond the immediate landfall zone.

Cyclone Arnab 2026: IMD is monitoring the situation 

IMD reported the forecast as of October 27, the storm surge has risen 1–2 metres above the astronomical tide. The actual impact will depend on the cyclone's final track, landfall timing, wind intensity and local coastal conditions. The storm-surge and rainfall figures remain forecasts and may change with subsequent IMD updates.