Cyclone 'Arnab' Causes Extensive Damage to Crops in Andhra Pradesh

Vijayawada. A severe cyclonic storm, 'Arnab', which originated in the Bay of Bengal, has reached the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, wreaking havoc. The combination of an extremely intense storm and torrential rain is expected to cause massive damage to standing crops across millions of acres in the state. A trail of destruction has begun to unfold in the coastal districts.

According to the meteorological department, wind speeds are initially expected to range between 125–130 km/h, potentially intensifying to 140–150 km/h. Furthermore, the heavy downpour threatens to leave fields—and the crops within them—completely submerged.

Preliminary estimates suggest that the impact of Cyclone 'Arnab' could severely damage agricultural crops across approximately 600,000 acres in Andhra Pradesh. Paddy (rice) crops, in particular, are at high risk, leaving farmers deeply concerned—especially as the harvest season is set to begin in the next 15–20 days.

The cyclone is currently most active between Visakhapatnam and Bapatla. Rainfall began in these areas on October 27, and by October 28, it had spread to additional regions. Stormy weather and heavy rain continue to affect several districts across the state. Beyond paddy, other Kharif crops are also expected to suffer significant damage. Waterlogging in the fields and the intense rainfall are likely to negatively impact both the yield and the quality of the crops.