Bhubaneswar, October 28, 2026: The Odisha government has intensified its disaster preparedness measures as Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast. Authorities have identified approximately 48,010 people from vulnerable areas across eight Odisha districts for evacuation, while shifting operations and emergency arrangements continue.
According to reports published on Wednesday, around 18,000 people had already been evacuated from vulnerable locations. District administrations are coordinating the movement of residents from low-lying areas and landslide-prone regions to safer places. <em></em>
Eight Odisha Districts Under Preparedness Measures
The evacuation plan covers eight districts where heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions are expected. These include Gajapati, Ganjam, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi and Nuapada.
The district-wise number of people identified for evacuation is as follows:
- Nabarangpur: Approximately 11,270 people
- Gajapati: Approximately 11,000 people
- Malkangiri: 9,850 people
- Ganjam: 6,500 people
- Koraput: 5,000 people
- Kalahandi: 2,415 people
- Nuapada: 1,675 people
- Rayagada: 300 people
District collectors have been instructed to oversee local preparedness and ensure that residents in vulnerable locations can reach safe shelters when required.
Odisha Releases ₹19 Crore for Relief and Preparedness
The state government has allocated ₹19 crore to support cyclone preparedness and relief operations in the affected districts.
Ganjam has received ₹5 crore, while Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi and Kandhamal have each been allocated ₹2 crore, according to officials.
The funds are intended to help district administrations carry out essential emergency preparations and respond to the developing weather situation.
Rescue Teams and Shelters Kept Ready
Emergency response arrangements have been strengthened with the deployment of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) personnel, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and fire and emergency services.
Authorities have also prepared cyclone shelters and temporary accommodation for people moved from vulnerable areas. Additional rescue resources remain available to support emergency operations as conditions develop.
To protect livestock, approximately 4,000 metric tonnes of cattle feed have been arranged and positioned at Koraput and Cuttack for distribution to affected areas if needed.
Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds Expected in Parts of Odisha
The India Meteorological Department has issued weather warnings for several districts as the cyclone moves towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. Heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds may affect parts of southern Odisha.
The cyclone’s movement and associated weather conditions could also affect transport and daily activities in vulnerable areas. Residents should monitor official weather bulletins and district-level announcements for updated information.
Government Appeals to Residents to Follow Official Advisories
The state administration has urged people living in vulnerable areas to cooperate with evacuation teams and move to designated shelters whenever instructed.
Residents should avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather, stay away from flooded roads and fast-flowing water, and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities. People should also rely on verified government announcements rather than circulating unconfirmed information on social media.
With evacuation operations and emergency preparations continuing, the immediate priority remains protecting lives and ensuring that assistance reaches communities at risk.
For the latest updates, follow advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department and the Odisha Special Relief Commissioner’s office.
