Severe cyclonic storm Phethai, which formed in the Bay of Bengal, slowly got moved and soaked seven districts of Andhra Pradesh today.The cyclone, crossed Yanam, located 40 km away from Kakinada city made landfall between Yanam and Kakinada.
The speed of gusty winds recorded 80 Km when the cyclonic storm hit Yanam coast. Downpour of rains and gust,however, are still making people panic across East Godavari district.
The damage created by Phethai, was at its extremity. As many as 700 electric polls fell down while numerous trees and crops got damaged. It is said that 1400 hectares of crops were submerged into rain waters. A total of 25000 people were shifted to relief camps wherein they are being taken care of rescue and relief teams. Cyclone victims were distributed food packets, water and clothes. The government has appointed 48 IAS officers to lead nodal teams.
The district collector Mr Karthikeya Mishra, who envisaged the catastrophe much before, declared holiday to all educational institutions on Monday. Though the loss of properties is uncountable, fortunately, no death toll has been recorded nor anyone was sustained with injuries.
Despite Phethai being crossed at Yanam, it's still moving towards Tuni and may cross there at any time. Notwithstanding, the cyclone is said to have been weakened at the moment. According to meteorological department's reports, heavy rains will be continued in Godavari districts, Krishna, Guntur and North Andhra districts for 24 more hours.