There is a likelihood of a devastating cyclonic storm named "Phyan" to hit Indian coastal areas by Wednesday evening , mainly in the areas of the country's western states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, said a release issued by Indian Meteorological Department.
The cyclonic storm is developing, following a deep depression in the South East and adjoining Central Arabian Sea. Fishermen have been warned against going near the sea during the next 24 hours.
The depression reportedly intensified into a cyclone early on Wednesday morning and is likely to move northeast wards and cross southern parts of Gujarat state and northern parts of Maharashtra coast, said the latest bulletin from the weather office.
Media reports quoted Deputy Director General at the Mumbai Meteorological Department as saying that the cyclone may not directly hit the country's financial capital Mumbai, but the impact of the severe weather has already started in the city.
He also urged the city administration to take enough precautionary measures, saying "as far as Mumbai and coastal areas are concerned, we have informed the state government and disaster management authority, to take all precautions for the safety of life and property. We have advised people in low-lying areas to take shelter". - Kuna