Cyclonic Storm Motha has neared the Indian mainland, and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow warnings in many districts of Jharkhand. The cyclone, which is in the Bay of Bengal, is projected to further increase and strike the Andhra Pradesh coast during the evening or night of October 28. This does not imply that Jharkhand is a coastal state, but since the state is close to the path of the projected cyclone, it will face serious weather upheavals in the coming days.
The IMD states that the cyclone will cause extensive rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds in other regions of the state of Jharkhand on October 28-October 31. The state will experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, particularly in the southern and central districts. The orange alert, indicating a greater level of risk, is declared in such areas as Simdega, West Singhbhum, Khunti, and Gumla. In the meantime, there have been yellow alerts in Ranchi, Latehar, Lohardaga and a number of other areas where moderate rainfall and thunderstorms would be heard.
The cyclone that is about to hit the region will result in waterlogging of the low-lying regions, destruction of standing crops, and temporary interference in power supply and road transportation. The IMD has advised people to stay indoors during heavy rainfall and avoid unnecessary foreign travel. Wind speeds of 30 to 40 kmph are very strong and may blow small trees as well as damage delicate buildings. The state disaster management department is also highly alerted, and the administrations of the districts have been advised to be ready to respond to emergencies.
The meteorologists have indicated that although the landfall of the cyclone is forecasted in coastal Andhra Pradesh, its moisture and wind bands will spill over to eastern India, and hit Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal. Jharkhand is very susceptible to the effects of flash floods and minor landslides due to the hilly terrain and river valleys, especially during the days of continuous rainfall. It has been recommended that farmers should take some measures to guard their crops and livestock against unfavourable weather.
The government has encouraged citizens to keep in touch with the weather predictions and observe warnings provided by the local governments. As the water levels are increasing, people who are residing along rivers and streams are being recommended to relocate to more secure places. As Cyclone Motha approaches the Indian coast, Jharkhand is preparing to experience a bout of heavy rain and power of winds, which may challenge the disaster preparedness of the state in the next few days.
