Cyclonic storm Gulab crossed north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha coasts between 7.30 pm and 8.30 pm on Sunday, about 20 km north of Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam district, with maximum speed of 75-85 kmph. It was traveling at a speed of 95 kmph.
It lay centered at 8.30 pm over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, about 160 km south-southwest of Gopalpur (Odisha) and 30 km west of Kalingapatnam.
It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and weaken into deep depression during next six hours.
trees uprooted
Staff Reporter at Srikakulam writes: The cyclonic storm, which made landfall between Vajrapukotturu and Santabommali mandals in the district, caused significant damage to eight mandals along the coast.
Due to heavy rains at many places, life was disrupted since morning. Hundreds of trees were uprooted in many mandals. Electricity supply was affected in many areas of Tekkali division due to falling of electric poles. Roads were also badly damaged.
At the time of Gulab’s landfall, heavy rains have been reported in Sandeepeta, Rajapuram, Bhavanpadu, Devunlatada and other villages.
According to officials, the effect of Gulab is relatively less as compared to cyclones Laila, Hudhud, Phailin and Titli.
“The district administration will remain alert for the next two days as heavy to very heavy rains are expected. The situation is under control, though damage has been reported from several places,” said Collector Shrikesh B. Lathkar said.
He said that the Irrigation and Revenue departments have been directed to monitor the situation as there is a possibility of heavy flow in Vamsadhara and Nagavali.
Shrikesh told the fishermen not to go into the sea.
holiday for schools
To ensure the safety of the people living in low-lying areas, 61 relief centers have been set up in 13 mandals. The government had already declared a holiday in schools and colleges for the next two days.
Officials urged people to stay indoors till normalcy is restored.
In case of any problem, people can contact the control room (08942-240557) set up in the District Collector’s office.
Meanwhile, Revenue Minister Dharmana Krishna Das visited the Vamsadhara river and asked the officials to inform the people in advance about the release of excess water from the Gotta barrage.
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