Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) informed that the depression formed in the Bay of Bengal is likely to turn into Cyclone Burevi. It will reach the Sri Lankan coast by Wednesday afternoon. The cyclone is likely to reach Kanyakumari coast by Thursday.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed the Navy, Coastal Guard and Air Force to prepare ships and helicopters for rescue operations. Seven more teams have been requested from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Other central forces are directed to stay alert. In case of extremely heavy rains, smaller dams may be opened, he added.
It is yet to be ascertained how the cyclone will affect Kerala. Gusty wind and very heavy rain are likely in south Kerala. The CM added that precautions have been taken for any adverse situation. More details of the path of the cyclone and its impact on Kerala can be known by Tuesday.
The IMD issued cyclone warning in South Kerala and South Tamil Nadu. The southern coastal areas of Kerala and Tamil Nadu will experience gusty wind at a speed of 75 kilometre per hour from December 2. Venturing into sea from Kerala coast has been banned till further notice.
Extremely heavy rain is expected on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in south Kerala. A red alert is sounded in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta and orange alert is issued in Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki on Thursday.
