Bhubaneswar: The landfall process of cyclone Gulab has started, informed India Meteorological Department (IMD) DG Mrutyunjay Mohapatra this evening.
According to Mohapatra, the landfall process of cyclone Gulab shall continue for the next three hours and end by 9 PM-9.30 PM.
Cyclonic Gulab is likely to make landfall between Gopalpur (Odisha) and Kalingapatanam (Andhra Pradesh), he added.
At present, there is no heavy rainfall in districts like Ganjam, Rayagada, Malkangiri and Koraput. However, light to moderate rain with a wind speed of 30-40 kmph is witnessed in Gajapati district.
Heavy rainfall is expected over Ganjam, Rayagada and Gajapati districts after the landfall of Cyclone Gulab, informed Odisha Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Jena.
Meanwhile, the collectors of the above-mentioned districts have been directed to stay alert to meet any eventuality due to cyclone Gulab.
Around 16000 people including 600 pregnant women and elderly people have been evacuated till now, the SRC added.