Cyclone Arnab weakens after claiming five lives; states on alert

The cyclonic system battering parts of eastern and central India is set to weaken significantly over the next 24 hours, with the India Meteorological Department predicting it will degrade into a depression by Thursday morning and further diminish into a well-marked low pressure area by evening.

Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh remained under rain alerts as the system continued to bring heavy precipitation across the region. The three states have experienced the worst impact, with the death toll reaching five as the cyclone moves across the subcontinent.

Authorities in the affected states have activated disaster management protocols and positioned rescue teams in vulnerable areas. Relief operations are underway to assist those impacted by flooding, landslides, and structural damage caused by strong winds accompanying the system.

As the cyclone weakens, weather conditions are expected to improve progressively from Thursday onwards, though isolated heavy rainfall may persist in parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Residents have been advised to remain cautious and avoid venturing into flood-prone areas until official all-clear notifications are issued by state authorities.