Cyclone Arnab Leaves West Godavari Devastated

Strong winds and torrential rain associated with Cyclone Arnab have reportedly caused extensive damage across West Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh. Areas including Narasapuram, Mogalthur, Palakollu and Yelamanchili have been severely affected, with large, decades-old trees uprooted and blocking roads. Hoardings were blown away, vehicle windows were damaged, and thousands of electric poles reportedly collapsed, snapping power lines and plunging villages into darkness. Rough seas and towering waves along the coast heightened fears among residents. Fallen trees disrupted road connectivity, while the closure of shops led to shortages of milk and essential supplies. Paddy crops nearing harvest were flattened by strong winds and rain, while banana and papaya plantations across Yelamanchili, Palakollu and Achanta suffered extensive damage. Coconut trees were also uprooted, and damaged pond embankments reportedly allowed fish and prawns to escape. Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu visited the Palakollu constituency from early Wednesday morning, travelling by motorcycle to inspect the damage. He also participated in removing a fallen tree near the municipal office and coordinated with officials to speed up relief operations.

The report also draws attention to the region’s history of cyclones and coastal disasters. The West Godavari coastline, stretching around 19 kilometres, has experienced several major weather events over the decades. Cyclones including Phethai in 2018 and Montha in 2025, along with earlier storms and the 2004 tsunami, are cited as reminders of the area’s vulnerability. Meanwhile, a cargo ship was reportedly stranded near the coast at Manchineellapeta in Vajrapukotturu mandal of Srikakulam district. Marine police said they were gathering information about the vessel, while rough sea conditions were being discussed as a possible reason for its presence there. Separately, heavy rainfall in Odisha’s catchment areas increased inflows into the Vamsadhara River. The report states that 44,000 cusecs of water were released from Odisha’s Harabhangi Reservoir on Wednesday evening, prompting officials to open 22 gates at the Gotta Barrage. Authorities estimated that the river’s flow could reach one lakh cusecs by Thursday afternoon.