A severe cyclonic storm named Cyclone Montha has struck the Andhra coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada. For people living in Punjab and thinking about it affects, its important to note while cyclone’s direct effects are regional, but let us dive into what it means for far-flung states like Punjab.
The storm made landfall late on October 28 2025 with sustained winds of about 90-110 km/h, gusting higher. Heavy to very heavy rain has been witnessed across many districts in coastal Andhra Pradesh and the adjoining interior (Rayalaseema) region, with flooding in low-lying zones and uprooted trees.
The cyclone remains active as it continues to pose risks of waterlogging, landslides in hilly terrain, and disruption of infrastructure. Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have mobilised relief centres, evacuated vulnerable populations and issued alerts for heavy rainfall and wind.
Will Punjab feel the effects and if so, how?
Though Punjab is several thousand kilometres away in northern India, it’s natural to wonder if a cyclone in the southeast can affect its weather. The short answer: only mildly the direct impacts (wind, storm-surge, coastal flooding) will not reach Punjab. But there can be indirect changes in weather patterns.
You will not see cyclone-level winds or storm-surge in Punjab simply because Montha made landfall on the east coast. The geography and distance prevent direct effects. There is no immediate threat of flooding or coastal damage in Punjab due to this cyclone’s landfall zone.
For instance, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has flagged that heavy rain may affect parts of Central and North-East India as the system evolves. For Punjab, this might translate into slightly higher than usual cloudiness, mild showers or more humidity than a typical clear day especially if there is a secondary weather disturbance or Western Disturbance interacting. A recent IMD press release indicated that for the northern plains the catalyst remains a Western Disturbance.
Farmers and outdoor workers in Punjab should therefore monitor local forecasts: while major disruption is unlikely, unexpected rain or wind-shifts could affect activities like harvesting and spraying.
