The state of Andhra Pradesh is facing tough times in several fronts. Apat from the continuing ambiguity over the bifurcation of the state, AP is facing the cyclones one after another in brisk mode. After severely hit by cyclones such as ‘Phailin’ and ‘Helen’, Andhra Pradesh is bracing up for another super cyclone, ‘Lehar’. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the Lehar is likely to hit the AP by November 28.
As of now, the ‘Lehar’ cyclone is at about 230 km east-southeast of Port Blair over the Andaman Sea. The cyclone is expected to cross Andaman and Nicobar Islands tonight on 25th November 2013. The cyclone would soon enter in Bay of Bengal and likely to intensify further into a very severe cyclonic storm.
It is predicted by the IMD that the Lehar would cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machillipatnam and Kalingapatnam near Kakinada on November 28. The IMD has warned the state government to take precautionary measures as there is still four days time to do so.
Helen cyclone has destroyed crops and properties in East and West Godavari districts and Krishna district. The crops like coconut, banana and vegetables have also been damaged in three coastal districts. More than 10 persons were killed in various incidents due to the cyclone.