Cyclone Montha is set to make landfall this evening. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that the cyclone is intensifying over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to cross the coast of Andhra Pradesh between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam. The speed of winds is approximately 90–100 km/h, with gusts up to 110 km/h. The storm is expected to bring extremely heavy rainfall across the east coast.
In a recent update, many trains from Visakhapatnam and one from Bhubaneswar, passing through Visakhapatnam, have been cancelled on Tuesday (October 28, 2025) because of the cyclone.
As many as 32 flights have also been cancelled due to the cyclone. All flights operating out of Visakhapatnam Airport were cancelled on Tuesday, said an official.
Train cancellations
In light of the impending storm, major railway zones operating in the region have taken precautionary steps: The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has cancelled more than 30 trains, diverted 1 train, and short-terminated 2 trains for the period covering 27-28 October.
The South Central Railway (SCR) has announced cancellation of up to 72 trains in affected coastal sectors for 28–29 October. Railway control rooms are on 24×7 monitoring and passenger assistance facilities have been activated.
Indigo issues travel advisoryIndiGo took to X and wrote, “Due to prevailing cyclone conditions and heavy rainfall expected in and around #Vijayawada, #Visakhapatnam and #Rajahmundry flight operations to and from these cities are affected. We advise all customers to check their flight status at https://t.co/4fxgr5orzK before heading to the airport. As waterlogging and traffic congestion are anticipated, please plan your journey with extra travel time. In case of flight cancellations, customers can easily explore flexible rebooking options or claim a refund via https://t.co/M20mZ7BKV1. Your safety and comfort remain our top priority, please stay safe and take care.”
Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have evacuated thousands of people for their safety. Red alerts have been issued for 19 districts in the state, warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding. Further, the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) has suspended night‐halt bus services and cancelled non‐essential long-distance runs in affected zones.
What travellers should do
Travellers should check the status of their flight or train before travelling. Passengers are also advised to use the official National Train Enquiry System (NTES), the official website of Indian Railways, or contact helplines at stations.
Avoid non-essential travel: With cyclonic weather conditions, travel during 27-29 October is being discouraged in affected zones.
Station disruptions: Flooding, wind damage, or landslides may affect station access.
The cancellation of trains and flights not only affects passengers but also logistics and freight operations in the region; service restoration will depend on weather.
Cyclone Montha can make landfall anytime with significant strength; safety of infrastructure, passengers and coastal communities is important. If you have travel plans for the east coast of India in the next 48 hours, reconsider.
Start a Conversation
Post comment