TNI Bureau: After the US faced the super storm Hurricane Sandy with massive damage, India’s southern part is bracing for Cyclone Nilam, which is expected to cross between Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh coasts by this evening. The cyclone was stationary for a long time over the Bay of Bengal at noon, but it is moving now.

The Indian Meteorological Department said cyclonic storm Nilam was about 450 kilometres south-southeast of Chennai.

Officials have warned the fishermen not to g to the sea and people at the areas like Chennai, Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur districts would be evacuated before the cyclone hits the coast at around 6 pm.

Schools and colleges in nine districts including Chennai remained closed today. At least five coastal districts in Andhra are on alert. The rescue teams are ready and the shelters have been prepared for the affected people.