Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: A potential cyclone is likely to make landfall between north Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha on October 28, according to the latest weather information cited in the report. The Andhra Pradesh coast is considered the more likely landfall zone. The system is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to several districts of Odisha, with southern districts likely to bear the brunt of the impact.

Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri are among the districts expected to be worst affected. Rainfall is also likely in other coastal districts of the state. In view of the anticipated weather conditions, schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in the five vulnerable districts will remain closed on October 28 and 29.

ODRAF and NDRF teams deployed across five districts

The Odisha government and district administrations have stepped up preparedness measures to deal with the potential cyclone and heavy rainfall. A total of 24 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams and six National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed across the five districts to handle emergencies and support rescue and relief operations.

Ganjam district has received the highest deployment, reflecting concerns over the potential impact of the weather system.

Officials on alert; 24-hour control rooms operational

As part of the precautionary measures, leave for district-level officials and other personnel has been cancelled. Officials have been directed to remain at their respective headquarters to ensure a swift response to any emergency.

Round-the-clock control rooms have been activated at district emergency operations centres, as well as at block, tehsil and municipal levels. Toll-free numbers and dedicated district helpline numbers have also been made available to the public for emergency assistance.

Restrictions on tourist movement

Authorities have imposed restrictions on tourist movement at hills, waterfalls, dams and other tourist destinations across the five southern Odisha districts as a precautionary measure.

Residents and visitors have been advised to exercise caution and follow instructions issued by local administrations as preparations continue to address the potential impact of the cyclone and associated heavy rainfall.

Note: The cyclone's projected landfall and impact are based on the information provided in the original report and should be treated as forecasts, not confirmed outcomes.