Cyclone Montha Update: Visakhapatnam And Vijayawada Airports Halt Flights As Andhra Pradesh Prepares For Impact

All of Andhra Pradesh is on high alert as the developing Cyclone Montha moves closer to land, triggering several operational disruptions and cautionary measures across the state. As a result, both Visakhapatnam (Vizag) and Vijayawada airports have suspended scheduled flights in anticipation of high winds and heavy downpour. Visakhapatnam Airport cancelled 32 flights, while Vijayawada Airport cancelled 16, managing only 5 departures. Alongside, state agencies and meteorological authorities are closely monitoring the system, mobilising emergency services and advising residents in vulnerable patches and inland regions to take safety precautions. With the cyclone expected to make landfall imminently, the movement of people and goods has come unstrung and preparedness efforts have intensified across the region.

Flight Cancellations And Transport Disruptions

Authorities at both the airports confirmed that most scheduled flights were cancelled on October 28, 2025 as the cyclone loomed closed. At Visakhapatnam Airport, 32 flights were scrapped, while Vijayawada Airport cancelled 16 and operated only 5 on the day. These cancellations disrupted both arrivals and departures, signalling significant inconsistency to air connectivity in the region. Ground transport authorities are also prepping up for possible road closures, flooding and debris-related blockades, although specific announcements regarding train and bus services are still awaited. Travellers planning to reach or depart from coastal Andhra regions are well advised to check with airlines and local authorities for updated travel information.

State-wide Precautionary Measures And Response

The Andhra Pradesh government has announced increased vigilance throughout the state, especially in coastal districts and regions vulnerable to high winds and heavy precipitation. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the fire department, and state disaster relief organisations are among the emergency services that have been put on standby. Residents in coastal and low-lying areas have been instructed by local administrations to stay inside, secure any loose items, and stay away from dangerous locations until further notice. Although no widespread evacuations have yet been made public, early evacuation procedures have been developed for some high-risk areas. The state meteorological service is still keeping a close eye on the cyclone and regularly advising districts that could be affected.

Expected Impact: Wind, Rainfall And Timing

Forecasters expect moderate to extremely heavy rainfall in sections of coastal Andhra Pradesh, along with strong gusts and possible storm surges along the coast, while the exact landfall location of Cyclone Montha is still being tracked. The time is still crucial, and the authorities anticipate major disruption, as seen by the cancellation of flights at the airports in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. In the upcoming hours, areas farther inland may encounter spillover effects such localised floods, power outages, and powerful wind gusts.

What Travellers And Residents Should Know

Verifying flight status directly with airlines, anticipating last-minute changes and modifying plans appropriately must remain the top priorities for travellers. Alternative routes or rescheduling can arise due to cancellations at major hubs in Andhra Pradesh. Residents should also protect their homes, remove debris from drainage systems, refrain from travelling during periods of strong winds or precipitation and pay unswerving attention to government advisories. It is highly advised to have emergency supplies including water, torches, batteries and first aid kits at hand. Establishing contact plans with relatives and friends is advised because communication networks may experience brief disruptions.

Outlook And Next Steps

State authorities are anticipated to issue additional advisories and take precautions as Cyclone Montha gets closer to impact. The severity of the situation and the extent of preparation in place are demonstrated by the suspension of airport services. Until situations stabilise and normalcy is restored, both locals and visitors are advised to remain vigilant, pay attention to official meteorological agency updates, and put safety first.

(With inputs from various sources.)

FAQs

1. What is Cyclone Montha?
Cyclone Montha is a developing tropical cyclone system over the Bay of Bengal, currently moving towards Andhra Pradesh. It is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and possible storm surges along the coast.

2. Which airports have cancelled flights due to Cyclone Montha?
As of October 28, 2025, Visakhapatnam (Vizag) Airport has cancelled 32 flights, while Vijayawada Airport has cancelled 16 flights and operated only five departures.

3. When is Cyclone Montha expected to make landfall?
Meteorological authorities have predicted an imminent landfall along the Andhra coast, though the exact location and timing are being closely monitored by weather agencies.

4. What measures has the Andhra Pradesh government taken?
The state government has placed emergency teams, including NDRF and local disaster response forces, on standby. Citizens in coastal and low-lying areas have been advised to stay indoors and follow official updates.

5. How are travellers affected by Cyclone Montha?
Travellers are facing widespread flight cancellations and delays across Andhra Pradesh. Authorities recommend checking flight status regularly, rescheduling plans if needed, and avoiding non-essential travel.

6. What precautions should residents take during Cyclone Montha?
Residents should secure loose items, clear drainage systems, stock up on essentials such as water and batteries, and remain indoors during high winds or heavy rain. Keeping communication lines open with family is also advised.