The depression in the Bay of Bengal has turned into a cyclone which is named as ‘Pethai’ cyclone. It is expected to cross the coast on December 17 evening between North Coastal Andhra and East Godavari district. Under its influence, already winds are blowing along the coast at a speed of 40 to 50 kmph.
The cyclone is intensifying and widespread rains will occur all across coastal areas in 24 hours. AP CM N Chandrababu Naidu has reviewed the cyclone situation with the officials and collectors of the coastal districts when he asked them to take all precautionary measures. Following this, the meteorological department officials have issued warnings to AP, Tamil Nadu, Orissa and Chhattisgarh.

The sea will become more rough from Saturday and there will be gales and winds along the coast reaching speeds of 80 to 110 kmph. As of now, the cyclone lay centred at 775 kms from Chennai city. On Sunday and Monday, there would be heavy to very heavy rains at different places in Coastal Andhra.
There are weather reports that the cyclone may have landfall at Kalingapatnam also. CM Naidu has directed the officials to take measures to prevent untoward incidents and also prevent loss of life. A close watch is to be placed on low lying areas and vulnerable villages where evacuation steps need to be taken if the need arises.