Cyclone Mekunu: Coastal Karnataka to receive more rains today

The power cyclone Mekunu which hit coastal Karnataka threw life out of gear at Mangaluru and Udupi. The weather forecast for today suggests that more rains would hit the region.

Private water forecaster Skymet has predicted that cyclone Mekunu may hit Kerala in a day or two. It has already made landfall in southern Oman and Yemen, carrying winds reaching up to 185 kmph and killing seven people in Yemen.

On Tuesday, heavy rains lashed coastal Karnataka following which light structures were blown off their hinges. Several trees were uprooted too. Water stagnated on the roads and even made its way into buildings which forced people to go home on inflatable boats.

The home ministry has directed the NDRF or National Disaster Management Response Force to remain on standby. If needed more teams will sent to Mangaluru, a home ministry official said.

Schools and colleges will remain closed in Dakshin Kannada and Udupi and the deputy commissioners of both districts have advised people to remain indoors.

"I pray for the safety and wellbeing of all those affected by heavy rains in various parts of Karnataka. Have spoken to officials and asked them to ensure all possible assistance in the affected areas," Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on a three nation tour of ASEAN members, tweeted after reaching Jakarta.