The Cyclonic Storm 'Gulab' over northwest and adjoining westcentral Bay of Bengal lay centered at 5:30AM Sunday morning (September 26), about 270 km east-southeast of Gopalpur (Odisha) and 330 km east of Kalingapatnam (Andhra Pradesh).
It is likely to move nearly westwards and cross north Andhra Pradesh - south Odisha coasts between Kalingapatnam and Gopalpur around midnight. As per reports, district authorities in south and coastal Odisha have been alerted to remain prepared as many regions are likely to experience heavy rains under the impact of the cyclone which is expected to make landfall between Kalingapatnam and Gopalpur.
Districts of Ganjam, Gajapati and Puri could witness damage to thatched huts. Roads, power and communication lines are likely to suffer damages due to felling of trees or breaking of branches. Some damage to paddy crops, banana, papaya trees and orchards is expected.
Sea water inundation in low-lying areas after erosion of Kutcha embankments in Ganjam district is very likely. Apart from this, there are chances of flash flood or water-logging and inundation in low-lying areas. Water level of Nagavali, Rushikulya, Vansadhara, parts of lower Mahanadi basin will also rise.
Further, there is prediction of localised landslides, mudslides in Ganjam and Gajapati districts. A similar damage forecast has been made for districts like Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal and Rayagada. Khordha and Nayagarh districts may witness flash flood/Water logging and inundation in low-lying areas.
There is possibility of some damage to informal/Kutcha road, and damage to horticulture/standing crops in some areas due to inundation.
In view of the damage forecast, the authorities have been asked to make arrangements for drainage of excess water, prevent movement in affected areas and stay in vulnerable structure(s). People have been advised to avoid taking shelter within caves of hilly areas.
Video Editor: Surendra Pradhan
Producer: Diptyranjita Patra