The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for 13 districts in Andhra Pradesh as a cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal intensifies into a very severe system.
The storm is expected to cross the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by October 28 noon, bringing maximum sustained wind speeds of 115 kmph to 125 kmph gusting to 140 kmph.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to remain alert and implement comprehensive plans for flood management and precautionary safety measures.