Heavy rains triggered by strong winds, have lashed Bhubaneswar, as the Cyclone Phailin is approaching the Odisha Coast at Gopalpur faster than expected. Normal life has come to a standstill in the capital city with people keeping themselves indoors. Three people died in Bhubaneswar due to falling trees, while two more died in Ganjam and one in Jagatsinghpur districts, taking the toll to six.
According to Met Department, the wind speed in Ganjam, Khordha and Jagatsinghpur has been measured at 150 km/hour as of 6 PM. It may reach 220-240 km/hour in a couple of hours. At least seven districts in Odisha, including major cities of Bhubaneswar, Berhampur and Cuttack are without power now.
The Bhubaneswar has given a deserted look despite the festive season. Many trees fell elsewhere in the city, but the administration was quick enough to clear the roads and evacuate people to safer places. Over 4.5 lakh people have been evacuated across Odisha so far. The cyclone is now centred at 80 km away from Gopalpur.
The Cyclone Phailin will hit Gopalpur at around 6 PM – 8 PM. The Indian Army personnel, NDRF, ODRAF, Navy and police forces have been deployed in vulnerable areas to fight the menace of cyclonic storm. Almost all areas in Bhubaneswar have been without power either since last night or this morning.
Latest Visuals from Bhubaneswar by The News Insight Team:
