Bhubaneswar: In view of the impending Cyclone Arnab, the Odisha government has ordered closure of schools and Anganwadi centres in five districts as a precautionary measure.
The precautionary closure comes as the cyclone is intensifying over the Bay of Bengal.
According to district administrations, all schools and Anganwadi centres in Nabarangpur and Rayagada will remain closed today and tomorrow.
Meanwhile, the Puri district administration has also ordered the closure of all schools and Anganwadi centres on October 27 and 28 as a precautionary measure in view of Cyclone Arnab. The order will be applicable to all government, private and aided schools across the district. The decision has been taken to ensure the safety of students in view of heavy rainfall and gusty winds forecast under the influence of the cyclonic system.
In Koraput and Ganjam, the closure will be in effect from October 27 to 29.Collectors of the respective districts have issued orders in this regard. However, teachers and other staff have been directed to remain present at their headquarters to assist in emergency management.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of very severe cyclonic storm conditions.
As per the latest IMD bulletin, the cyclone’s wind speed is likely to reach 135-145 kmph by 11:30 am today, with gusty winds up to 160 kmph over the sea. The high wind speed is expected to continue till evening.
The cyclone, named Arnab, is likely to be in a very severe intense stage near Kakinada coast by 5:30 am on Wednesday , with sustained winds of 125-135 kmph and gusts up to 150 kmph over the sea.Authorities have asked people in coastal and low-lying areas to remain alert.
