Hudhud effect: Rain lashes Andhra, 2 killed

Two killed in rain-related incidents in Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam districts under influence of severe cyclonic storm Hudhud: AP govt.

Heavy rains accompanied by winds started lashing parts of the north coastal Andhra region Saturday evening under the impact of the 'very severe' cyclone in Bay of Bengal.

Authorities have closed Ichapuram-Kakinada national highway for traffic. Kakinada-Uppada highway in East Godavari district was damaged as water gushing out of sea due to high waves inundated the road.

Fishing operations have been suspended while highest warning signal has been hoisted at the ports in the region.

High alert has been sounded in the northern coastal districts of Srikakulam, Vijayanagaram and Visakhapatnam and adjoining districts of East Godavari and West Godavari which are bracing for the cyclone, which is all set to make a landfall around Visakhapatnam Sunday forenoon.

Officials said 370 relief camps have been opened in five districts, where 396 villages are likely to be affected. In Srikakulam district, 1.85 lakh people will be sheltered in 110 camps. Over 86,000 people will be evacuated in West Godavari district and over 72,000 in East Godavari district.