Cyclone Nilam claims 4 lives in AP

Four persons were killed in the state today as rain continued to lash various parts of Andhra Pradesh under the influence of cyclone 'Nilam.'Three of the deaths were on account of electrocution, while another person was killed after a wall collapsed, in the districts of Prakasam, Nellore and Anantapur, officials said.

Incidents of house collapse and cattle loss were also reported. 'Nilam' crossed north Tamil Nadu coast near Mahabalipuram, south of Chennai, between 4 pm and 5 pm yesterday.

Contrary to fears, the cyclonic storm has not caused much damage so far. It weakened into a depression over Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh and lay centred near Chitradurga this morning, officials said, adding that it would move northwestwards and weaken further into a low pressure area during the next 12 hours.

Heavy rain occurred in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra districts today. Normal life was badly affected in the rain-hit districts as low-lying areas and important roads were inundated. Standing paddy, banana and other crops were badly damaged at various places.