Cyclone Arnab: Andaman Schools Shut on October 27; Odisha Closes Schools in Five Districts on October 28–29

Schools in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and parts of Odisha are observing temporary closures as authorities strengthen safety measures in response to Cyclone Arnab. The precautionary steps aim to protect students and reduce risks from heavy rainfall, rough seas and strong winds.

The Andaman and Nicobar administration has ordered schools to remain closed for students on October 26 and 27. In Odisha, schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in five southern districts will remain closed on October 28 and 29, according to the state government’s announcement.

Andaman schools closed on October 27

The Directorate of Education in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands ordered a two-day closure covering October 26 and 27 as a precaution against the approaching cyclonic system.

The administration has also advised residents to follow official weather updates and avoid unnecessary exposure to hazardous conditions. Fishermen have been warned against venturing into the Bay of Bengal, where sea conditions are expected to deteriorate.

Authorities have further advised people to avoid tourism, recreational activities and onshore and offshore activities until conditions improve.

Odisha schools, colleges shut in five districts

The Odisha government has announced the closure of educational institutions on October 28 and 29 in the following districts:

Ganjam

Gajapati

Rayagada

Koraput

Malkangiri

The restrictions cover schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in these districts. According to the Chief Minister’s Office, district collectors in other areas will decide whether to declare additional holidays after assessing local weather conditions.

The state administration has stepped up disaster preparedness, including arrangements for evacuating residents from vulnerable low-lying areas and moving people requiring medical assistance to safer facilities. Rescue teams and emergency services have also been placed on alert.

Officials have urged residents to follow instructions issued by local administrations and avoid locations such as waterfalls, dams and other tourist spots where weather conditions could pose a risk.

IMD forecasts cyclone landfall on October 28

The India Meteorological Department reported on October 26 that Cyclone Arnab had intensified over the west-central Bay of Bengal. Its forecast indicated that the storm was likely to move towards the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coast, crossing between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of October 28.

The IMD forecast maximum sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph. Heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions were also expected in parts of the affected region.

The cyclone's projected path and associated weather conditions prompted authorities across vulnerable areas to review evacuation arrangements, emergency response resources and public safety measures.

Students, parents and school staff should check the latest announcements from their respective district administrations and educational authorities for any changes to closure dates or reopening schedules.