Wednesday, November 30 2005 11:17 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Chennai: Relief and rescue machinary, particularly in the metropolis and two neighbouring districts of Kanchipuram and Tiruvallur in Tamil Nadu, have been kept on alert in view of a cyclonic storm that is likely to cross between Chennai and Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh either tonight (November 30, 2005) or tomorrow morning (December 1, 2005).

Local Weather Office here said the Monday's deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal intensified into a cyclonic storm yesterday and now lay 450-kms east southeast of Chennai continued to "remain practically stationary".

However, it was likely to move west northwestwards and cross between Chennai and Machilipatnam by tonight or early tomorrow morning. There was likely to be moderate rains over many parts of the state in the next 24 hours beginning eight am today.

During the same time, Chennai, Kanchipuram and Tiruvallur districts were likely to have rains and strong winds with speed reaching 50 to 60 Kmph were likely to commence along off these districts during the same time. The condition of the sea was likely to be rough to very rough and hence, fishermen were advised not to venture into sea.

Meanwhile, the central team, which arrived here two days back, continued with their assessment of rain ravaged areas and were expected to conclude later in the day.

The relief operations in the affected districts were continuing in full swing after water receded in most areas, in few areas of Cuddalore district, there was water logging.

Medical team have also been sent to prevent any outbreak of diseases, official sources said.