India is experiencing its strongest tropical cyclone to make landfall in 20 years and the east coast of the country is at huge risk.
Over 1 million people have been evacuated from the state of Odisha where the cyclone has made landfall this morning.
Reportedly, more than 9000 shelters have been set up to house the people.
According to reports, about 10,000 villages and 52 towns in nine districts are under immediate threat from the cyclone and are on high alert.
Ships and helicopters have been deployed for relief and rescue missions. The Army and Air Force are also kept on standby in West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh.
Reportedly, Cyclone Fani made landfall in Puri around 8 AM in the morning and triggered very heavy rainfall. The rain brought along high velocity winds measuring at a speed of 175 kmph.
Large areas in Puri have been submerged with water and the entire city is in a state of havoc. Trees and structures were uprooted and destroyed, even in the city of Bhubaneswar.
This tropical storm is expected to last for another 6 hours and then travel to the north east region.
Villages in Andhra Pradesh are also facing severe heavy rainfall with people’s livelihood being damaged.
Reports also that all flights from Bhubaneswar have been cancelled and Kolkata airport will be shut down starting today. 140 trains which include 83 passengers trains have also been cancelled.
Our prayers are with the people of the areas Cyclone Fani has impacted.