Cyclone 'Montha' is intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm and is predicted to make landfall near Kakinada on Tuesday night. While not directly impacting Odisha, heavy rainfall has prompted the state government to cancel the leave of all government employees till October 30th and elevate readiness.
A Red Alert has been issued for eight districts in South Odisha, including Ganjam, Gajapati, and Koraput. In view of the heavy rain forecast, Anganwadis in these eight districts will remain closed on the 27th and 28th, with all schools in Ganjam also closed.
Authorities are on high alert, with 110 cyclone shelters activated. Kalinga Ghati is closed till the 30th due to potential landslides.
Though 'Montha' will weaken before entering Odisha via Malkangiri on the 29th, the Red Alert remains for South Odisha due to the forecast of heavy to very heavy rain on the 28th and 29th. Fishermen are prohibited from going to sea.