Officials evacuate residents in low-lying areas May cross Tamil Nadu coast by today night

Authorities in state were on high alert on Saturday as a severe cyclone 'Jal' neared the coastline from southwest Bay of Bengal. In south coastal districts, the officials began evacuating people from areas close to the coast and low-lying villages to minimize loss of life in view of the warning from the India Meteorological Department that the system may intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm.

The department has issued a cyclone warning for north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh. According to bulletin issued on Saturday , Jal lay centered over southwest Bay of Bengal at about 650 km east-southeast of Chennai and 750 km southeast of Nellore.

Meanwhile, Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea and the weather office has suggested that coastal hutment dwellers be moved to safer places inland.

Published Date Sunday, Nov 07, 04:10PM IST

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