'Helen' to hit Andhra by 2 pm

Nov 22, 2013, 14:12 IST

Cyclone Helen that is expected to hit the Andhra coast by 2 pm, is following torrential rains that have already started in coastal areas. People of Machilipatnam and other low lying coastal areas are being evacuated and fishermen have been asked not to venture into the sea.

According to latest IMD's bulletin, 'Helen' is now 45 kms away from Machalipatnam. Strong winds speed reaching 55-65 kmph to 75 kmph would prevail along and off the south Andhra coast. The wind speed would gradually increase to 120 kmph at the time of landfall. According to IMD reports the storm will rise to about 1.5 m and would flood low lying areas of West and East Godavari, Krishna among others.

There are chances of damage to property of people living in the low lying areas and communication lines might also be affected.