Cyclone Montha leaves Hyderabad waterlogged, IMD issues critical alert for several Telangana districts

Credit: @WeathermanSumit / X

Hyderabad and several districts across Telangana are grappling with significant disruption as cyclonic storm Montha made landfall at midnight, unleashing persistent heavy rains and triggering alerts for severe weather conditions throughout the state.

The India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) Hyderabad unit has issued a critical red alert for Khammam and Warangal districts, indicating expectations of extreme weather. Residents in these regions have been advised to remain indoors and avoid all non-essential travel.

An orange alert is also in effect for a wider area, including the districts of Kothagudem, Hanamkonda, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda, Vikarabad and Suryapet.

The effects of the cyclone, which formed over the Bay of Bengal, have been felt since Tuesday evening. According to the Hyderabad Meteorological Centre, the system is now moving in a north-easterly direction, with its impact already causing substantial rainfall and related hazards.

Within Hyderabad, the downpour has been intense and widespread. Areas such as Gachibowli, Lingampalli, Madhapur and Hitech City have seen notable rainfall, while Qutubullapur, Kukatpally, Miyapur and Alwal have experienced persistent heavy rain. The consequent waterlogging on roads has created serious difficulties for motorists and led to major traffic snarls across the city.

The situation is particularly acute in Khammam district, as reported by the Hyderabad Meteorological Centre. Continuous moderate rain has been falling since last night, causing considerable damage to paddy and cotton crops.

In mining areas including Manuguru, Illandu and Sattupalli, rainwater has reportedly flooded open cast mines, dealing a significant blow to local coal production. The Paleru reservoir is being closely monitored, with its water level at 22.5 feet, perilously close to its full capacity of 23 feet.

The IMD has cautioned that thunderstorms, lightning and heavy rains are likely to persist in the coming hours. Authorities are urging the public to stay updated with official weather bulletins and to exercise extreme caution until the cyclonic system fully abates.