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Cyclonic storm likely to hit
Tamil Nadu around noon

The severe cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal, which lay 180 kilometres southeast of Madras in the early hours of Wednesday, is likely to cross the coast between Madras and Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu, officials said.

"The storm is now 100 kms east of Cuddalore and 180 kms southeast of Madras. The storm is likely to cross the coast between Cuddalore and Madras anytime in the afternoon," Andhra Pradesh Relief Commissioner D C Rosaiah told rediff.com on Wednesday morning.

"Nellore (on the Andhra coast) may not actually face the cyclone but we are on high alert. It's already raining in Nellore. We are watching the situation closely though the possibility of the cyclone hitting the Nellore coast is receding. We are taking all precautions in case it (the storm) does turn towards the Andhra coast," the Relief Commissioner said.

He said between 30,000 to 40,000 people have been evacuated to safer places from 28 low-lying and vulnerable coastal villages in Nellore district. Fishermen have been asked not to venture into the sea. Army boats and Indian Air Force helicopters have been kept on standby to meet any eventuality.

Hyderabad Meteorological Centre Director Dr C V V Bhadram pointed out, "Chances that the storm may dissipate itself in the sea are very remote. By noon or afternoon, the storm may cross the coast between Cuddalore and Nellore since it is moving in a westerly, north-westerly direction."

Bhadram added, "Surface winds are also strengthening, though there is not much rain. It has started raining in Nellore and other places."

He said at the time of crossing, coastal areas will experience winds with speeds reaching 150 to 170 kms/hr. Tidal waves 1.5 metres above the normal tide level are also likely to inundate the low-lying coastal areas. The gale may damage pucca houses and buildings, disrupt the communication network, uproot trees and poles.

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