Cyclone Arnab’s continuing impact has placed parts of Chhattisgarh on alert, with authorities preparing for heavy rainfall, strong winds and possible flooding while schools in vulnerable districts have been ordered to remain closed. A video showing a deep red sky over Kirandul in Dantewada district has also circulated widely, although the precise cause of the unusual appearance has not been independently established.
The weather system moved inland after making landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the storm crossed the coast with sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph and gusts reaching 150 kmph before weakening. Its effects were expected to continue across parts of central and northern Chhattisgarh on Thursday, October 29.
The red-hued sky seen over Kirandul was shown in a video shared by The Times of India. The phenomenon has been linked online to atmospheric disturbances associated with the cyclone, but the supplied report does not establish that explanation independently. The video emerged as rain, gusty winds and persistent cloud cover affected Dantewada and other parts of the state.
The state government had placed 12 districts on alert on Tuesday. School education minister Gajendra Yadav recommended a two-day holiday in districts considered vulnerable to the cyclone’s effects, citing student safety amid forecasts of heavy rain and strong winds. Authorities announced school closures for Thursday, October 29, in affected areas.
The threat of heavy rainfall was expected to shift towards northern and central parts of Chhattisgarh. The IMD forecast heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places, along with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Kondagaon and Sukma were among the districts under heightened weather alerts. Wind speeds in vulnerable areas could reach 60-80 kmph, with stronger gusts possible at isolated locations.
Rainfall was also reported in Gariaband, Raigarh and other districts, while temperatures remained subdued across several areas. Raipur was expected to remain cloudy, with spells of rain or thundershowers during the day.
The Raipur district administration directed the police, health, revenue, local-body and electricity departments to remain prepared for weather-related emergencies. Disaster-response teams and fire services were placed on alert, while officials were instructed to monitor low-lying areas, drains, vulnerable structures and power lines. A control room was activated to coordinate assistance and track weather alerts.
Residents were advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from flooded roads and streams, and remain indoors during lightning and strong winds. The district administration issued helpline number 0771-2413233 for assistance. Officials urged residents to follow local advisories and rely on official weather updates as unsettled conditions continued across the state.
