Andhra Pradesh has converted 609 school campuses into relief and rehabilitation centres as Cyclone Arnab brings heavy rainfall, strong winds and flooding to coastal districts. The move is part of the state government’s efforts to protect residents in vulnerable areas and provide temporary shelter to people affected by the storm.
According to the School Education Department’s preparedness report submitted to the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS) on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, authorities had identified 150 schools as vulnerable to flooding or inundation. Another 78 school buildings were flagged for potential structural weaknesses that could pose safety risks during severe weather.
The department is monitoring 58,616 schools across 28 districts, covering nearly 69.6 lakh students and approximately 2.23 lakh staff members. As a precaution, school holidays have been declared across all 16 coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh.
Infrastructure Checks and Relief Arrangements
Authorities have stepped up inspections of school buildings to reduce risks from structural damage and flooding. The department has prioritised checks of vulnerable campuses, including roofs, walls and other essential structural components. Buildings considered unsafe have been barricaded to prevent people from entering them.
Relief shelters are being equipped with drinking water, food supplies, first-aid kits and other essential materials. School officials have also been instructed to maintain updated contact details for students and staff and keep parents informed about closures and shelter arrangements.
In Kakinada district, residents of Uppalanka village were moved to a school being used as a cyclone shelter, where a medical camp was established to provide assistance. More than 17,000 student volunteers from organisations such as the National Cadet Corps, National Service Scheme and Scouts were also mobilised to support preparedness and response efforts.
Chief Minister Reviews Cyclone Response
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the situation and directed officials to clear fallen trees, restore electricity when conditions permit and prevent tanks and canals from overflowing. Disaster response teams have been placed on alert, while authorities continue to monitor rainfall, flooding and damage in affected districts.
With heavy rain and strong winds continuing to threaten parts of the state, the administration is focusing on evacuation, emergency shelter, medical support and the protection of vulnerable communities.
The conversion of 609 school campuses into relief centres highlights the role of educational institutions in disaster management, providing essential temporary accommodation when severe weather forces residents to leave their homes.
