Authorities have evacuated more than 40,000 people from the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh.
"Already the Andhra Pradesh coast is being battered by high tides and fierce winds. Even though the windfall is expected only in the evening, the waves and the winds have already caused extensive damage in coastal districts, where trees have been uprooted, cars smashed and roads damaged. Communication and power supplies have also been disrupted and air and train services have come to a halt," the official said.
However, cyclonic storm Laila was showing signs of weakening before hitting the seashore, said Indian meteorological officials.
Local TV reports said that three people have been killed in the storm.
Indian Defense Minister A.K. Antony told the media that the armed forces were always ready to help the civil administration whenever they are in distress.
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40,000 evacuated in southern Indian state as cyclone approaches
NEW DELHI, May 20 (Xinhua) -- Indian authorities have evacuated more than 40,000 people from the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh as Cyclone Laila approaches the southern state, a senior government official said Thursday.
"Already the Andhra Pradesh coast is being battered by high tides and fierce winds. Even though the windfall is expected only in the evening, the waves and the winds have already caused extensive damage in coastal districts, where trees have been uprooted, cars smashed and roads damaged. Communication and power supplies have also been disrupted and air and train services have come to a halt," the official said. Full story
