Annamayya braces for Cyclone Montha with orange alert now in force

Annamayya district is mobilizing ahead of Cyclone Montha as authorities issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next three days. District Collector Nishant Kumar chaired an emergency meeting with officials from Revenue, Police, Municipal Administration, Panchayat Raj, Irrigation, and Roads and Buildings to map out disaster-preparedness steps. Sub-Collectors Bhavana (Rajampet) and Challa Kalyani (Madanapalle) were also present, underscoring the cross-departmental coordination that the situation demands.

Officials stressed that field-level officers are on high alert and that vulnerability assessments are already underway. Municipal teams will identify vulnerable buildings, old school structures, and flood-prone residential pockets so timely action can be taken if waterlogging or breaches occur. Irrigation officials will monitor reservoir water levels and stock sandbags to plug any breaches at weak bunds should reports emerge.

A public alert mechanism will be activated, with authorities using public address systems to inform residents in low-lying areas. Farmers were advised to safeguard harvested crops and livestock, while health officials are to stock medicines and be ready to set up emergency medical camps. Special attention was urged for pregnant women in flood-prone zones, reflecting a humane, protective approach to the forecast threat. A control room is to be established by Sunday morning to coordinate response efforts and quickly relay information to field teams.

Police guidance includes placing warning boards near overflowing canals, bridges, and culverts, and ensuring rapid reporting of emergencies to the control rooms. The overarching message from officials is clear: stay vigilant for three days, heed official advisories, and move promptly to safety if advised to do so. With Montha forecast to bring significant rainfall, the district is emphasizing proactive planning, rapid communication, and community readiness to minimize damage and safeguard lives.

Cover image source: Severe cyclone to cross Andhra Pradesh coast on Tuesday night 🔗

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