The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported on Tuesday that Cyclone Montha had strengthened into a severe cyclonic storm, prompting coastal Andhra Pradesh authorities to warn and take preventative action.

As the cyclone's outer bands started to affect the coast early Tuesday morning, reports of rough sea conditions, strong winds, and sporadic rainfall were made at Manginapudi Beach near Machilipatnam in the Krishna district. Shops along the beach road have been closed, and visitors have been barred from entering the area as a safety measure.

Local residents described the worsening conditions as the storm drew closer.

Murali Krishna, Fruit Vendor, “Since last night, heavy rain has been lashing the area, and strong winds have continued since morning as the impact of Cyclone Montha has intensified. The government is working hard and has informed us that heavy rains are expected for the next 3-4 days. This effect may continue for two more days, so people need to be careful.”

Ramesh, Fruit Vendor, “Since morning, the wind has been very strong, and it is expected to intensify over the next two days. We are advising people to stay safe and avoid coming out unnecessarily.”

Farmers in the area are worried as nearby farmlands along the Manginapudi Beach road have started to flood as a result of the continuous rain and strong winds.

Teams of disaster managers are on high alert, and control rooms are prepared to keep an eye on events and plan possible evacuations from low-lying areas. The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts of Andhra Pradesh over the coming days under the cyclone’s influence.

Interestingly, the name ‘Montha’ is derived from the Thai language, meaning “a fragrant flower.”