For those of you planning a trip or are already in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry, it would be advisable to avoid the coastal region for a bit. A cyclone alert has been announced by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) affecting areas close to the sea. Latest reports predict that cyclone Gaja is advancing towards Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh and the coastal area of Tamil Nadu. In the coming 24 hours, it might turn into a storm with speeds of 12 km/hr in the western region.

The aforementioned regions will be prone to heavy rainfall on November 14 along with some distant regions of Kerala on November 15. The IMD is hopeful that the effects of cyclone will start to wane by then. For now, the IMD has advised for a total suspension of fishing activities along and off the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh for a couple of days. Fishermen out at the seas have been cautioned and advised to return by today as the seas are expected to be very rough.

The governments of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have asked the district administrations to be prepared to take all necessary measures in wake of the cyclone alert. The state disaster management officials also organised a meeting to review the steps in order to brace the cyclone. A team of 26 members from the Coast Guard and home guards in Cuddalore has been tasked to initiate cyclone relief and rehabilitation efforts, should the need arise.

On October 11 this year, Cyclone Titli caused much devastation in Odisha, and led to a death toll of 60. The IMD however, said the storm is likely to weaken gradually while crossing towards north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh.