The states of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have ordered the closure of schools and colleges across multiple coastal districts as Cyclone Montha intensifies over the Bay of Bengal and the landfall draws near. The storm is expected to cross the coast on October 28, 2025, with extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds reaching up to 110 km/h.
What the alert status is in both states
In Odisha, the government has placed eight districts under a “red alert” for heavy rain and gusty winds. These include Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Kandhamal and Kalahandi. Schools, anganwadis and colleges in these zones have been ordered to remain closed until at least October 30, 2025. In Andhra Pradesh, districts such as Kakinada, East Godavari, Eluru, West Godavari and others have announced holidays for educational institutions from October 27 to 29, 2025, in view of the impending storm.
Why the education shutdown?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast extremely heavy rainfall and gale-force winds as Cyclone Montha intensifies and moves towards the coast. Gusts as high as 110 km/h are expected. Schools and colleges are closed pre-emptively as a safety measure. Additionally, evacuation of tens of thousands of people from low-lying coastal areas has already begun in Andhra Pradesh, underscoring the severity of the threat.
What students, parents and institutions should note?
- In Odisha: Educational institutions in the eight red-alert districts have been directed to remain shut until at least October 30, 2025 to prevent risk from heavy rain and wind.
- In Andhra Pradesh: Many districts have announced a three-day holiday for schools and colleges (Oct 27 – 29). Students and staff should monitor announcements for resumption.
- All institutions should follow directives from district authorities and disaster-management departments.
- Parents are advised to keep children indoors, avoid coastal zones and heed instructions from local authorities.
The wider mobilisation and preparedness measures
Disaster-management teams in both states are on high alert with evacuation centres, boats, rescue squads and relief materials already deployed. In Andhra Pradesh alone, approximately 50,000 people have been moved to relief camps as part of preparatory actions for Montha’s landfall. Fishermen along the Odisha coast have been advised not to venture into the Bay of Bengal until further clearance is given.
What schools and colleges must do next?
- Keep closures in place until the official “all clear” is issued by the district or state authorities.
- Use the downtime to review contingency protocols, student-safety mechanisms and ensure staff readiness.
- Communicate clearly with students and parents about reopening schedules and alternative learning arrangements, if applicable.
- Monitor the official state disaster management website and IMD updates for further instructions on resumption.
