Complete Cyclone Montha Safety Guide: Preparing Before, During, and After the Storm

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Andhra Pradesh has been placed on high alert as Cyclone Montha approaches the Kakinada coast, with landfall expected by October 28. The cyclone is forecasted to bring intense winds reaching 90-100 kmph and heavy rainfall, with coastal districts beginning to feel its effects from October 26 according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

During a Saturday teleconference, State Chief Secretary K Vijayanand directed immediate establishment of control rooms in affected mandals and instructed field personnel to maintain constant presence in vulnerable villages. Authorities are continuously monitoring the developing situation.

Cyclone Montha: Essential Safety Guidelines

Preparations Before Cyclone Season

Thoroughly examine your residence and secure loose tiles, doors, and windows.

Remove unstable or dead trees near your property and secure loose objects including bricks, tin sheets, lumber, garbage containers, and signboards.

Keep wooden boards prepared for protecting glass windows if necessary.

Stock hurricane lanterns with kerosene, battery-powered torches, and additional dry cells.

Remove unsafe or condemned structures.

Maintain extra batteries for radios and store non-perishable dry foods for emergency situations.

Safety Measures When Indoors During Cyclone

Disconnect electrical mains and gas supply to prevent potential fires or gas leakage.

Secure doors and windows against strong winds. If your house is structurally weak, unsafe, or located in flood-prone areas, evacuate immediately.

Stay informed about weather forecasts, evacuation notices, and safety instructions through reliable sources such as NDTV, IMD, and local authorities.

Ensure water safety by boiling or purifying drinking water to prevent waterborne illnesses.

Protect windows with boards or storm shutters; if unavailable, apply paper strips on glass to minimize splinter injuries.

Keep emergency lighting, torches, food supplies, and water easily accessible.

Precautions If Outdoors During Cyclone Montha

Avoid entering damaged structures until officially declared safe by authorities.

Maintain distance from broken electric poles, wires, and sharp debris to prevent injuries or electrocution.

Seek shelter in robust buildings or designated cyclone shelters for protection against powerful winds and flying debris.

Guidelines During Cyclone Alerts And Evacuation

Pay attention to official warnings via radio or trusted news sources, disregarding unverified rumors.

Evacuate low-lying areas promptly for higher ground or evacuation centers to avoid becoming stranded.

Pack essential items including medications, infant or elderly food supplies, and important documents.

Adhere to shelter regulations and remain until authorities confirm it's safe to depart.

Post-Cyclone Safety Measures

Do not return to your residence until authorities have confirmed the area is safe.

Prevent waterborne and vector-borne diseases by seeking medical assistance and necessary vaccinations.

Exercise caution around hanging wires and other hazards that may remain electrically charged.

Drive cautiously, watching for debris, fallen trees, and flooded sections.

Remove rubble, fallen branches, and obstacles from your premises.

Report accurate information regarding property damage, injuries, and other losses to assist authorities in assessing cyclone impact.