Winds can blow at speeds of 60 to 80 km per hour; schools closed in several districts, including Bastar and Sukma, and the administration is on alert.

Raipur. The effects of Cyclone Arnab, which formed in the Bay of Bengal, are beginning to be felt in Chhattisgarh. Rain is falling in Raipur, Raigarh, and Gariaband. Cold winds have changed the weather in many areas.

The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert in Kondagaon, Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, and Sukma. Heavy rain and winds of 60 to 80 kmph are expected in southern Chhattisgarh. Wind speeds could reach 90 kmph in some places.

Due to the weather, schools have been declared closed in Bastar and Sukma districts, including Jagdalpur. Schools in Gariaband and Durg have also been closed. The administration has advised residents to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary outings.

Relief camps set up in Sukma, police and administration on alert

Sukma has been experiencing rain since Tuesday night. The sky remained overcast on Wednesday morning. Anticipating further bad weather, the administration has set up relief camps in government buildings to protect people living in mud houses and in the interior.

Around 50 people from Naya Para Sundar Nagar, Ward 12, have been housed in the girls' school complex in Sukma. Police and administration teams are monitoring the situation.

Heavy rain warning on October 29 as well

According to the Meteorological Department, the cyclone's effects could continue into October 29. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected in parts of northern and central Chhattisgarh. Many districts of the state have been cloudy since Tuesday.

Daytime temperatures have also dropped due to the rain and cool winds. Authorities have urged people to stay away from power lines, trees, and fragile structures and to stay in safe places during the bad weather.