4 coastal districts have been put on alert as the cyclonic storm "Helen" is likely to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Sriharikota and Ongole around the night of November 21.
Speaking to media persons at the Secretariat media point, Disaster Management Commissioner C Parthasarthy said that the Meteorology Department has predicted heavy rainfall and strong winds due to the impact of the cyclonic storm.
He added that the Collectors of Nellore, Prakasam, Krishna and Guntur districts have been asked to take measures to minimise the damages.
A control room with numbers 040-23456005 and 040-23451043 has been set up by the state Secretariat, and round-the-clock control rooms will also work in districts.
Meanwhile, the Meteorology Department predicted rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places over coastal Andhra Pradesh, commencing from Wednesday night.
Also, isolated extremely heavy falls (25cm or more) would occur over south coastal Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday and Thursday.
Rainfall at most places, with isolated heavy to very heavy falls, would occur over Rayalaseema and adjoining north Tamilnadu, on Thursday.
Extensive damage to thatched roofs and huts is feared, while minor damage might occur to power and communication lines due to the uprooting of large avenue trees and flooding of escape roots.
The state government has ordered a total suspension of fishing operations.
Coastal hutment dwellers are being moved to safer places, and people in affected areas have been asked to remain indoors. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea. (INN)