PM review preparedness; Mumbai airport shut till 8 PM

Mumbai: Typhoon Tauktae intensified into a hurricane. As the severe cyclone moved towards Gujarat, strong winds and heavy rains lashed Mumbai and adjoining areas this morning. It will reach the coast of Gujarat on the evening of May 17, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said. As a precautionary measure, the state government evacuated more than one lakh people living in coastal areas in 17 districts till Sunday night and resumed work on Monday morning, the government said.

According to the cyclone warning section of the IMD, wind speeds are expected to reach 150-160 km / h and reach 175 km / h by May 18. The first hurricane of the year has already accelerated the plight of states that are matching the devastating second wave of Covid-19. The Center has directed the states to ensure that health facilities are not affected and medical care is maintained. 

IMD Director General M Mohanpatra said the cyclone was rapidly intensifying. Gradually intensifying phases include cyclonic storms, severe hurricanes, very severe hurricanes, extreme storms, and super cyclonic storms. 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has convened a meeting to review the preparations and assistance being provided by the Armed Forces to the civilian authorities to address the situation caused by Hurricane Tauktae. Twelve flood rescue teams and medical teams have been deployed for emergency response and deployment.

Repair and rescue teams have been formed to take over the post-cyclone emergency infrastructure repair if necessary. Three ships (Talwar, Tarkash, and Tabar) are on standby with assistance and relief supplies for emergency relief in distressed areas if needed.