AMARAVATI/NEW DELHI – At least six people have died and power supply remains disrupted in several areas along India’s eastern coast, a day after Cyclone Arnab hit the region with heavy rain and strong winds, officials said on Thursday.
Death Toll
An Andhra Pradesh state government official put the official death toll at six. However, The Times of India, citing local officials, reported that nine people had died. The deaths were caused by electrocution, falling trees and collapsed houses. The difference in the two figures shows that the full picture is still emerging.
How Strong Was the Storm?
The India Meteorological Department classified Arnab as a “very severe cyclonic storm.” This is the third-highest category on its scale. The cyclone formed over the Bay of Bengal and made landfall in Andhra Pradesh early on Wednesday. The Bay of Bengal is a major breeding ground for tropical cyclones, and many deadly storms have struck India’s east coast from this region.
Power Supply Hit Hard
The storm badly damaged the electricity network. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said in a statement that at least 15,000 electricity poles were damaged.
Crews have worked to restore services. According to the statement, power has been brought back in most districts, except Konaseem and West Godavari, where supply is still affected.
Ship Stuck at Sea
A cargo vessel carrying 20 crew members remains stalled off the coast of Andhra Pradesh. The ship, which sails under the flag of the Marshall Islands, could not move on Thursday because of rough seas, officials said.
Evacuations and Disruptions
Ahead of the cyclone’s arrival, authorities moved more than 180,000 people to safer places in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Some schools were closed, and several train and flight services were cancelled to keep people safe.
Government Credits Technology
Naidu said advances in technology helped the government work out which areas were likely to face the biggest impact. This allowed officials to prepare in advance and limit the loss of life and property, he said.
What Comes Next
Authorities are expected to continue repair work in the districts still without electricity. Officials are also likely to update the death toll as more information comes in from affected areas. The rescue of the stalled cargo ship will depend on sea conditions improving.
