Fresh cyclone alert issued in coastal districts of Saurashtra

Rajkot, Sep 23 (UNI) Local administrataion today issued fresh cyclone warnings for the coastal districts of Saurashtra as cyclonic depression in the Arabian Sea was moving towards southwest of Porbandar.

Resident Deputy Collector (RDC) of Porbandar AI Mansuri told UNI over phone, the cyclone centred about 280 km southwest of Porbandar, was likely to hit the coastal areas of Saurashtra in the next 24 hours as it was moving slowly in north-easterly direction towards the Saurashtra coast.

He further said under the influence there might be gales reaching up to 90 to 120 kmph in these districts. The liason officers of the coastal districts had been advised to remain present and to monitor closely the situation to meet any eventuality. If necessary, the people near the sea-coast may be asked to shift to safer places.

Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea.

The administration has also hoisted great danger signal number 9 at different ports across the Kutch-Saurashtra coast and has alerted the relief and rescue machinery.

In Porbandar, civic authoritiy has announced cyclone warnings to the people living in these areas and asked them to remain vigilant and ready for evacuation, if necessary, Mr Mansuri said.

The cyclone may cause damage to power and communication lines, besides, affecting normal life.

Under its influence, heavy to very heavy rains are likely to occur in the coastal districts.

UNI AV/VNB KU KD KN1519